ANTLE, development for environmental respect

The test phase of the engine ANTLE (Affordable Near Term Low Emissions) has concluded. It consists of an experimental vehicle for aeronautic motorisation technologies at medium term. This vehicle has been developed within the EEFAE project (Efficient and Environmentally Friendly Aircraft Engine), the largest aeronautic research programme launched by the European Union in the area of propulsion. The company Industria de Turbo Propulsores, S.A. (ITP) has designed manufactured and assembled the Low Pressure Turbine (TBP) and the externals of this engine.

The test cycle has been done between February and May in the National Aerospace Institute (INTA) of Madrid. This process has been the culmination of five-year-research carried out between companies and institutions of the European aerospace sector.

ANTLE has been based on a three-axis-engine of Rolls-Royce, and in addition to ITP, other participants have been the Italian Avio, responsible of intermediate turbine, and Rolls-Royce Deutschland, responsible of the high pressure compressor. The low emission combustion chamber and the high pressure turbine have been developed by Rolls-Royce UK and the support structure of the rear bearing by Volvo Aero.

ITP has a participation of 20 % in the programme as the responsible of a new turbine of low pressure, whose technology will be applied in engines in which ITP is going go participate in the near future.

Other participants of this project are: Eldim (Spain-Switzerland), Howmet, Goodrich, Calidus, Techspace Aero and the universities of Florence and Luleå.

Environmental objectives

The technological objectives of this experimental engine are oriented to the improvement of competitiveness and reduction in emissions of engines that will start operating in 2008. The objectives are characterised by their demand in environmental aspect and consumption.

Reduction in consumption /reduction in CO2 emissions: 12%
Reduction in NOX emissions: 60%
Reduction in acquisition cost: 20%
Reduction in life cycle cost: 30%
Reduction in development cycle: 50%
Improvement of reliability: 60%

ANTLE is one of the two experimental engines that constitute the technological platform EEFAE. The second one is CLEAN and it aims to apply technologies for a longer term.