iFan (Integrated Fan Technologies)

The next generation of civil turbofans will feature higher bypass ratios, to improve propulsive efficiency and hence reduce fuel-burn and CO2 emissions. They are likely to be driven by a geared LP system, as per the Rolls-Royce UltraFan™ engine concept, which is expected to be 10% more efficient than the current state of the art. However, as fan diameter is increased, so is the weight and drag associated with a conventional engine installation, and this offsets much of the efficiency benefit offered by the higher bypass ratio.
iFan will address this problem by developing and validating the aerodynamic capabilities needed to design a novel integrated fan-intake system. This will enable shorter intakes and slimline nacelles to be used (with lower weight and drag), whilst managing the effect on fan efficiency and operability.
The project will achieve this by developing a range of aerodynamic & aeromechanical prediction methods, from low fidelity through to extremely high fidelity CFD calculations. These will enable predictions to be made of the efficiency and stability of an installed fan system, as well as the aeromechanical integrity (flutter etc.).