Engineers at GE Aircraft Engines in Johnson City, N.Y., needed an engine controller to manage their GEnx jet engine. They found a solution with a digital electronic control from FADEC International in Colombes, France.
The “FADEC 3” design that will underpin the GEnx control is currently in use on GE90-115B, CF6, and CFM56 engines. It also controls the GP7200 being developed by the GE-Pratt and Whitney Engine Alliance joint venture for the Airbus A380.
The control uses an Ethernet-based data-communications network to provide diagnostic capability for the entire engine system. The FADEC governs engine fuel flow, controls variable engine geometries, interfaces with the engine thrust reverser, and performs advanced functions such as electronic engine overspeed protection.
The fuel-saving GEnx engine is slated for use on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the Airbus A350. FADEC International is a limited-liability company formed by BAE Systems and Hispano-Suiza. For more information, see www.fadecinternational.com.
