Europrop International

 

Successful first test of the TP400-D6 intermediate pressure compressor 
December 2004
EPI Europrop International GmbH (EPI), the joint company formed by the four leading European aero engine companies to offer the TP400-D6 turboprop for the A400M transport aircraft, has announced that the successful first run of the TP400-D6 Intermediate Pressure Compressor (IPC) has taken place in Munich today (30th November 2004). 

Successful first test of the TP400-D6 intermediate pressure compressor  During the tests the IPC performed exactly as expected. The five-stage IPC of the TP400-D6 engine is a lightweight design with four Titanium blisk-rotors. The IPC is located at the interface to the nacelle and intake and is, therefore, a key-element in the safe operation of the engine when integrated into the A400M.

The test was witnessed by shareholders of EPI, together with representatives from the Airbus Military Company, OCCAR (Organisation Conjoint de Cooperation en matiere d'Armement) and politicians from the partner countries.

“ The first run of the IPC is an important milestone for our customers and it demontrates the efforts made by MTU Aero Engines to meet this requirement for the TP400-D6 engine program ", said Prof. Dr. Günter Kappler, Managing Director of EPI. He added : “ The engine development is on schedule within all the partner companies of EPI, with the first ground tests of the TP400-D6 planned in August 2005 ”.

MTU Aero Engines’ Chief Operating Officer Dr Michael Süß noted: " MTU was selected for the IP-compressor to follow Europrop's Motto: 'The best from the Best'. The delivery of the Rig on time is a proof for the excellent competence, high degree of enthusiasm and reliability of every employee who is involved in that project." 

Notes for Editors

EPI Europrop International GmbH was created by four leading European aero-engine companies - Industria de Turbo Propulsores, MTU Aero Engines, Rolls-Royce and Snecma (SAFRAN Group) - to manage the TP400 engine programme.

Designed to power the Airbus Military A400M military transport, the TP400 will be the most powerful turboshaft engine to enter service in the West. It features a three-shaft configuration and will deliver a maximum power output of 11,000 shaft horsepower. More than 800 engines will be required for the 192 A400M aircraft ordered to date by nine countries.

For further information, please contact:
Nick Britton, Rolls-Royce
Tel: +44 117 979 59 43
Email: nick.britton@rolls-royce.com

Vincent Chappard, Snecma
Tel: +33 (0)1 69 87 09 29
Email: vincent.chappard@snecma.fr