Our next-generation engines need a next-generation test bed. That’s why we’re building Testbed 80, an incredible new facility at our Civil Aerospace campus in Derby, UK.
Not only will this monumental structure be the largest testbed in the world, it will be the smartest, bringing our IntelligentEngine vision to life. The latest in digital and physical testing technology will come together under one enormous roof, ensuring Rolls-Royce is best placed to deliver passengers more reliably and efficiently than ever before.
We’re making great progress on the testbed, which is scheduled to open in 2020.
The IntelligentEngine vision means engines are connected, contextually aware and comprehending, starting from their time on the testbed. In reality, that means we need to be able to process unbelievable amounts of data, x-ray engines to levels of detail we’ve never seen before, and use digital twins to predict how our engines will behave in service.
We’ll do all of this in a facility that’s larger than a Premiership football pitch, which will simulate the physical conditions an engine might encounter when flying, such as extreme weather. Capable of testing a range of today’s engines, including the Trent XWB and the Trent 1000, the facility will also serve as a base for testing UltraFan®, Rolls-Royce’s engine for the next generation of aircraft.