Safran selects Ansys for simulation as it designs next-gen aircraft engines

PITTSBURGH - Aircraft engine manufacturer Safran Aircraft Engines, which is based in Courcouronnes, France, will implement Ansys' finite element analysis (FEA) tools as an end-to-end structural and thermal simulation solution in new programs for developing next-generation aircraft engines. Ansys, which is based in Canonsburg, Pa., says that the integration will support aviation sustainability efforts while advancing Safran Aircraft Engine's productivity and cost-efficiency.

Safran Aircraft Engines will deploy Ansys Mechanical FEA software for design and validation in the CFM RISE1 technology Program, which is driven by the worldwide aviation industry commitment to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Simulation is an important technology to accelerate the development of novel, sustainable-by-default technologies, while also upgrading existing technologies to meet energy efficiency standards.

The RISE program will leverage Ansys' simulation tools to support three main technology pillars, including an advanced open fan architecture, new materials, and hybrid electrification capabilities to enable the reduction of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by more than 20% compared to today's most efficient engines.

Thermal and mechanical engineers at Safran Aircraft Engines will harness Ansys' simulation solutions for advanced engine developments, including sophisticated structural designs such as an open unducted fan, upgraded composite material to combat higher temperatures, and hybrid electrification to lower emissions. Additionally, high-fidelity solver features such as fluid–structure interaction capabilities and faster solve times will allow Safran Aircraft Engines to slash development time with a significant reduction in simulation workflow compared to the company's previous FEA tools.