Rolls-Royce MT30 completes US Navy milestone

Thursday, 5 August 2004

The Rolls-Royce MT30 has completed another major development milestone - required for operation by the US Navy.

The 36MW marine gas turbine has completed endurance test running for American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) certification.

It is already well positioned for two leading-edge US Navy programmes, having been selected for initial production versions of Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) and the DD(X) multimission destroyer Engineering Demonstrator Model (EDM).

Patrick J. Marolda, President - Rolls-Royce Naval Marine Inc, said: “This is an excellent achievement which confirms the MT30 can satisfy all US Navy requirements. It puts us in a great position to drive on and deliver for two key national defence programmes. We have translated leading-edge, proven, aero engine technology into a unique marine power system.”

The MT30 is also included in the baseline design for the two proposed Royal Navy aircraft carriers and is being actively considered for the Franco-Italian FREMM frigate programme.

Completion of 1,500 hours endurance testing at 100F (38C), proved its ability to maintain power at high ambient temperatures. Inspection has shown the gas turbine to be in extremely good condition after testing.

This latest milestone follows DNV (Det Norske Veritas) design approval earlier this year, which certified the engine at 36MW to DNV's rules for classification of High Speed, Light Craft and Naval Surface Vessels.

The gas turbine has 80 percent commonality with the Trent 800 aero engine, which has won a market-leading 44 percent of the Boeing 777 program, achieving more than five million flying hours since entering service in 1996.