Computational structural analysis and advanced commercial engines

Abstract

The history of computational structural analysis is reviewed and anticipated requirements for the design, development, and support of advanced commercial engines is discussed. The present commercial engine environment is comprised primarily of turbofan engines containing monolithic titanium and nickel alloys. Future commercial engines will make extensive use of composite materials to meet demanding high temperature requirement and aggressive weight goals, since only modestly higher capabilities can be anticipated in monolithic materials. Engine configurations will include ducted and/or unducted propfans and super turbojet in addition to turbofans.