Cincinnati – May 2025 – GE Aerospace has announced a significant step forward in developing compact engine core technologies, completing more than 3,000 endurance test cycles on advanced high-pressure turbine (HPT) airfoils. This milestone forms part of the CFM RISE* program and reflects the company’s early emphasis on durability and reliability in next-generation engine design.
The full engine tests, which evaluated new blade and nozzle configurations under simulated high-thrust flight conditions, demonstrated improved performance in durability and fuel efficiency over conventional turbine technology. These gains are particularly vital for future commercial aircraft operations that demand both performance and cost-efficiency.
“With endurance tests conducted on new high-pressure turbine blade cooling technologies, it shows the CFM RISE program’s early focus on durability and reliability,” said Arjan Hegeman, vice president of future of flight engineering at GE Aerospace. “This is the earliest in new technology development that we’ve done durability tests, incorporating the experience of our commercial aircraft engines flying today.”
The tests included more than 3,000 high-cycle repetitions, simulating the rigours of repeated takeoffs and climbs. Initial phases had focused on validating thermal, mechanical, and system-level performance, laying the foundation for long-term component survivability.
Looking ahead, the company will conduct dust ingestion testing—examining how HPT blades, located in the engine’s hottest section, perform in challenging environmental conditions. This is critical to verifying real-world reliability, especially for aircraft operating in regions prone to airborne particulates.
The CFM RISE program, launched in 2021 as a joint effort between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines, is one of the aviation sector’s most ambitious demonstration platforms. With over 250 tests completed, the program is progressing toward a core demonstrator expected later this decade. Alongside compact engine cores, RISE is advancing disruptive concepts such as open fan architectures and hybrid electric propulsion systems. All technologies are being tested with both conventional jet fuel and 100% unblended Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
Targeting a more than 20% improvement in fuel burn and substantial gains in engine durability, the RISE initiative reinforces GE’s commitment to a sustainable and efficient aviation future.
SOURCE AND IMAGE: GE AEROSPACE
