Snecma Silvercrest Core Engine Passes Initial Tests
France-based engine manufacturer Snecma has reported “positive results” for the first 35 ground test hours of its Silvercrest core engine.

France-based engine manufacturer Snecma has reported “positive results” for the first 35 ground test hours of its Silvercrest core engine. In an unusual move, the company has begun the test program without announcing a launch application for the new turbofan, which is targeted for applications on future super-midsize to large business jets. The core engine achieved “all the expected performance objectives” for these combustion trials. It reached a rotation speed of 19,800 rpm, 85 percent of takeoff demand. According to Snecma, overall compressor and combustor performance, turbine efficiency and overall dynamic behavior, among other criteria, were successfully tested. A total of 660 real-time parameters were monitored during the tests. Engineers are planning to continue the test campaign through next month. Last year, Snecma officials said the engine could be certified by as soon as early 2011, depending on the application found. The 9,500- to 12,000-pound-thrust engine’s compressor final stage is centrifugal, which increases the pressure ratio without making the engine longer.