Cincinnati, Ohio-based Nexcelle (Hall 2A, A232) is exhibiting what it calls an industry- leading integrated propulsion system here in Paris in the form of afunctional scale model demonstrating elements of its next-generation, engine nacelle configuration. The half-scale model shown by Nexcelle–the engine nacelle joint venture of Middle River Aircraft Systems and the Safran group’s Aircelle company–highlights the company’s efforts to cut fuel consumption, improve performance and enhance maintenance for jet engine applications on commercial airliners and business aircraft.

Features of the propulsion system include a low-drag front end with single-piece air inlet; a fan cowl structurally integrated to the engine; a translating O-duct thrust reverser that provides improved fan flowpath while eliminating door links, lower bifurcation, latches and split lines; and a new integrated mounting system for reduced engine distortion and enhanced on-wing performance.

 “We invested in this high-fidelity model to visually and mechanically demonstrate why Nexcelle’s IPS technologies will deliver real performance advantages in new propulsion systems,” said Steve Walters, Nexcelle president. “It takes our technology roadmap from paper to a practical demonstration, and underscores the progress we are making in bringing the IPS to reality.”

The functional scale model sits on the Paris Air Show exhibit of Safran–the parent company of Nexcelle’s joint venture partner company, Aircelle.

Nexcelle has won the competition to supply the engine nacelle systems for two major engine programs: the CFM International Leap-X1C integrated propulsion system on Comac’s C919 airliner and the GE Passport 20 engine for Bombardier’s Global 7000 and 8000 business jet aircraft.