With its 140-inch fan diameter, UltraFan is the world’s largest demonstrator aero engine, containing a suite of scalable new technologies that deliver greater fuel efficiency.
By enabling lower emissions and advancing sustainable practices, UltraFan contributes significantly to the aerospace industry’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The demonstrator was successfully tested using 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), derived primarily from waste-based feedstocks such as used cooking oils.
The UltraFan team was recognised for their groundbreaking work in five critical development phases, showcasing Rolls-Royce’s commitment to innovation:
- Concept Design: A multidisciplinary team of circa 25 engineers developed an innovative engine concept design, working with minimal constraints and a clear focus on delivering a transformative step forward in performance
- Advanced Core Architecture: The Advance 3 demonstrator redefined the engine’s core design, achieving record-breaking pressure ratios above 60:1, higher turbine entry temperatures and significant emissions reductions
- Power Gearbox Innovation: UltraFan features the world’s most powerful aerospace gearbox, capable of over 65 MW, enough to power 500 family cars. Its development involved rigorous testing at a bespoke facility to ensure durability and reliability
- State-of-the-art Testing Facility: Testbed 80, the largest and smartest indoor test facility globally was built to validate UltraFan with cutting-edge digital capabilities
- Integrated Demonstrator Design: The UltraFan demonstrator builds on the success of the Advance 3 and PGB demonstrators and integrates these with a new best in class advanced LP system, featuring a low-speed composite fan system and high-speed low-pressure turbine. The ability to operate the fan and LP turbine at the optimum aerodynamic condition ensures maximum fuel efficiency, reduced noise and a masterclass in engineering excellence.