What is the Rolls-Royce AE 2100?

The Rolls-Royce AE 2100 is a turboprop engine family. It was originally developed by the Allison Engine Company, which is now a part of Rolls-Royce North America. The engine was initially designated GMA 2100 when Allison was a division of General Motors. Turboprops are a type of aircraft engine that uses a gas turbine to drive a propeller, providing efficient power for many regional and transport aircraft.

What was the original name of the AE 2100 when Allison was part of General Motors?

When Allison was a division of General Motors, the AE 2100 engine was originally known as the GMA 2100. This naming convention reflects its development under the General Motors umbrella before the Allison Engine Company was acquired by Rolls-Royce.

Which aircraft manufacturer first selected the GMA 2100 engine, and for which aircraft?

Saab-Scania A.B. was the first aircraft manufacturer to select the GMA 2100 engine. They chose it to power their new Saab 2000, which was a 50-seat stretched version of the existing Saab 340 turboprop aircraft. This decision was announced on July 11, 1989, as part of a US$500 million deal.

When did flight testing begin for the AE 2100 using a testbed aircraft?

Flight testing for the AE 2100, specifically using a Dowty R373 propeller on a Lockheed P-3 Orion testbed aircraft, commenced on August 23, 1990. This testing phase involved over 50 hours of both flight and ground evaluations.

Which variant of the AE 2100 powers the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules?

The AE 2100D3 variant is the powerplant for the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules. This specific version underwent its initial test flight on March 19, 1994, using a leased Royal Air Force Lockheed C-130K Hercules as a testbed.

What was the significance of the AE 2100D3 receiving FAA type certification?

The AE 2100D3 variant received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type certification by April 1997. This certification is a crucial step, signifying that the engine meets the rigorous safety and performance standards required for civil aviation use, paving the way for its integration into commercial aircraft.

How many AE 2100D3 variants had been delivered by February 2018?

As of February 22, 2018, Rolls-Royce had delivered 2,000 units of the AE 2100D3 variant. This milestone highlights the engine's widespread adoption, particularly by the U.S. Air Force for its C-130J fleet.

When was the AE 2100C variant certified, and what aircraft did it power?

The AE 2100C variant was certified on December 20, 1993. It was selected to power the prototype of the IPTN N-250 regional airliner, which had its first flight on August 10, 1995. However, the N-250 program was later indefinitely postponed due to the Asian financial crisis.

Which tactical airlifter was selected to be powered by the AE 2100 in June 1997?

In June 1997, the AE 2100 engine was chosen by Lockheed Martin and Alenia to power the C-27J Spartan tactical airlifter. This selection marked another significant application for the AE 2100 family in military transport aviation.

What are Rolls-Royce's plans regarding AE 2100 engine support in India?

Rolls-Royce plans to establish a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India to service the AE 2100 engines used by the Indian Air Force's C-130J fleet. This initiative is also intended to enhance the C-130J's capabilities and support its prospects in the Indian Air Force's Medium Transport Aircraft program.

What engine is the Rolls-Royce AE 2100 derived from?

The Rolls-Royce AE 2100 is a derivative of the Allison AE 1107C-Liberty, which is also known as the Rolls-Royce T406. This shared lineage means the AE 2100 utilizes the same high-pressure core as the T406 turboshaft engine and the AE 3007 turbofan engine.

What is the power capability of the AE 2100's high-pressure core?

The high-pressure core shared by the AE 2100, AE 1107C-Liberty (T406), and AE 3007 engines is capable of powering turboprops up to 10,000 shaft horsepower (7,500 kilowatts). This indicates a robust and scalable core design.

Describe the basic shaft configuration of the AE 2100 engine.

The AE 2100 is designed as a two-shaft engine. This configuration typically involves a gas generator (high-pressure) spool and a separate power turbine (low-pressure) spool that drives the propeller, allowing for optimized performance across different operating conditions.

What technological innovation did the AE 2100 pioneer regarding engine control?

The AE 2100 was among the first engines to utilize dual Full Authority Digital Engine Controls (FADECs). These FADECs manage both the engine's operation and the propeller, allowing for integrated control and adjustment with a single lever for the pilot.

What are the main production variants of the AE 2100 engine?

The AE 2100 engine has several production variants. These include the civil AE 2100A, and military variants such as the AE 2100D2/D2A, AE 2100D3, AE 2100J, and AE 2100P.

What design element did the AE 2100 inherit from the Allison T56 engine?

The AE 2100 inherited the 14-stage axial compressor design from the Allison T56 engine. However, it features improvements such as variable stator vanes for the first five stages of the compressor.

How is the AE 2100's combustor designed?

The AE 2100 features an annular combustor. This design uses 16 air-blast fuel injection nozzles, which helps in efficient fuel mixing and combustion.

Describe the turbine stages in the AE 2100.

The AE 2100 has a two-stage high-pressure (HP) turbine that drives the compressor. Additionally, it has a two-stage free power turbine (PT) that drives the propeller through a separate shaft and gearbox. The first stage of the HP turbine uses single-crystal blades for enhanced durability at high temperatures.

What material are the AE 2100's blades and vanes made of, and what is the advantage?

The AE 2100 utilizes replaceable steel blades and vanes. While steel is heavier than titanium, it offers greater reliability, contributing to the engine's overall durability and operational lifespan.

What is the rated power of the AE 2100 engine and gearbox, and how does it vary for different aircraft?

The AE 2100 engine and gearbox are rated at 6,000 shaft horsepower (shp). However, this power is derated for specific applications: 4,200 shp for the Saab 2000, 4,590 shp for the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules, and 3,600 shp for the IPTN N-250.

What type of propellers are typically used with the AE 2100 engine?

The AE 2100 engine typically uses six-bladed, all-composite propellers manufactured by Dowty. Specific models include the R381 for the Saab 2000, R414 for the ShinMaywa US-2, R384 for the IPTN N-250, and the R391 for the C-130J military transport and its civil variant, the LM-100J.

What is the typical reduction ratio of the AE 2100's gearbox, and what is its reliability metric?

The gearbox in the AE 2100 typically has a reduction ratio of approximately 14:1. It demonstrates high reliability, with a mean time before unscheduled removal (MTBUR) exceeding 35,000 hours.

List the primary aircraft applications for the AE 2100A variant.

The AE 2100A variant is primarily used on the Saab 2000 aircraft. It was also used on the Lockheed P-3 Orion in a testbed configuration during the engine's development phase.

Which aircraft was powered by the AE 2100C variant, and what was its fate?

The AE 2100C variant powered the prototype of the IPTN N-250 regional airliner. However, the N-250 program was indefinitely postponed in the late 1990s due to the economic impact of the Asian financial crisis.

What are the applications for the AE 2100D2A and AE 2100D3 variants?

The AE 2100D2A variant is used on the Alenia C-27J Spartan tactical airlifter. The AE 2100D3 variant powers the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules and its civil-certified version, the Lockheed Martin LM-100J.

What was the proposed AE 2100F variant intended for?

The AE 2100F was a variant proposed in 1995 intended to retrofit existing Allison T56-powered Lockheed C-130 models (E through H) and Lockheed L-100-30 aircraft. This upgrade package, including Dowty R394 propellers, was priced at approximately US$11 million per aircraft after trade-in.

For which proposed aircraft was the AE 2100G variant offered?

The AE 2100G variant was offered in 1994 for the proposed ATR 82 twin-turboprop airliner. This aircraft was designed to seat up to 86 passengers and required approximately 5,000 horsepower.

What maritime patrol aircraft was the AE 2100H variant proposed for?

The AE 2100H variant was proposed in 1996 for Dassault Aviation's proposed Atlantic Third Generation (ATL3G) maritime patrol aircraft (MPA).

Describe the AE 2100J variant and its application.

The AE 2100J is a hybrid variant combining features from the AE 2100A and AE 2100D3. It incorporates the torque-meter and interconnecting struts from the AE 2100A, and the gearbox-mounted accessory gearbox from the AE 2100D3. It also features a stronger reduction gearbox, a Dowty six-bladed propeller for higher loads, and modifications to mitigate seawater ingestion. This variant powers the ShinMaywa US-2 amphibious aircraft.

What are the general characteristics (length, diameter, dry weight) of the AE 2100D3?

The AE 2100D3 engine has a length of 124.12 inches (315.3 cm), a diameter of 28.71 inches (72.9 cm), and a dry weight of 1,740 pounds (790 kg). These dimensions provide context for its integration into various aircraft.

What is the maximum power output specified for the AE 2100D3?

The maximum power output for the AE 2100D3 variant is rated at 4,637 shaft horsepower (shp), which is equivalent to 3,458 kilowatts (kW). This figure represents the engine's peak performance capability.

What is the overall pressure ratio of the AE 2100D3 engine?

The AE 2100D3 engine has an overall pressure ratio of 16.6:1. This ratio indicates how much the air is compressed before combustion, which is a key factor in engine efficiency and performance.

What is the specific fuel consumption for the AE 2100D3 at takeoff?

The specific fuel consumption for the AE 2100D3 at takeoff is 0.460 pounds per horsepower-hour (lb/(hp·h)), which is equivalent to 0.209 kilograms per horsepower-hour (kg/(hp·h)) or 0.280 kilograms per kilowatt-hour (kg/kWh). This metric measures the fuel efficiency of the engine.

What is the power-to-weight ratio of the AE 2100D3?

The AE 2100D3 engine has a power-to-weight ratio of 2.76 shaft horsepower per pound (shp/lb), or 4.54 kilowatts per kilogram (kW/kg). This ratio is important for aircraft design, as it relates the engine's power output to its mass.

What related engines are listed in the 'See also' section?

The 'See also' section lists related engines as the Allison T56, Rolls-Royce AE 3007, and Rolls-Royce T406. These engines share common design elements or developmental history with the AE 2100.

What comparable engines are mentioned alongside the AE 2100?

The Rolls-Royce AE 2100 is compared with the General Electric GE38 and the Pratt & Whitney Canada PW150 engines. These are likely other turboprop engines used in similar aviation applications.

What is the purpose of the dual FADECs in the AE 2100?

The dual Full Authority Digital Engine Controls (FADECs) in the AE 2100 are used to manage both the engine's operation and the propeller. This integrated digital control system allows for precise adjustments and single-lever control, simplifying operation and optimizing performance.

What is the significance of the AE 2100 being the first engine to use dual FADECs for engine and propeller control?

Being the first engine to integrate dual FADECs for controlling both the engine and propeller marked a significant advancement in engine control technology. This allowed for synchronized adjustments via a single lever, enhancing operational efficiency and pilot workload management.

What is the role of Rolls-Royce plc in the AE 2100's manufacturing history?

Rolls-Royce plc is listed as a manufacturer of the AE 2100 engine. This reflects the acquisition of the Allison Engine Company by Rolls-Royce, integrating the AE 2100 into Rolls-Royce's product portfolio.

What is the total number of AE 2100 engines built, according to the infobox?

According to the infobox, over 2,300 units of the AE 2100 engine have been built. This figure indicates a substantial production volume for this engine family.

What is the origin country for the AE 2100 engine?

The AE 2100 engine originates from the United States. This designation refers to the country where the primary development and manufacturing capabilities were initially established by the Allison Engine Company.

What is the type of engine the Rolls-Royce AE 2100 is classified as?

The Rolls-Royce AE 2100 is classified as a turboprop engine. This means it uses a gas turbine engine to drive a propeller, which is a common configuration for aircraft requiring efficient performance at moderate speeds and altitudes.

What is the purpose of the variable blades in the AE 2100's compressor?

The AE 2100 features variable blades for the inlet guide vanes and the stators of the first five stages of its axial compressor. Variable blades allow for adjustment of airflow characteristics, which helps optimize compressor efficiency and performance across a wider range of engine speeds and operating conditions.

What is the function of the free power turbine in the AE 2100?

The AE 2100 utilizes a two-stage free power turbine. This turbine is mechanically independent of the gas generator turbine and is solely responsible for driving the propeller through a reduction gearbox, allowing for optimal propeller speed independent of the gas generator speed.

What is the significance of the MRO facility planned in India for the AE 2100?

The planned MRO facility in India for the AE 2100 aims to provide dedicated support for the Indian Air Force's fleet of C-130J aircraft. This strategic move not only ensures efficient maintenance but also potentially enhances the C-130J's operational capabilities and supports future military aviation programs in the region.

What is the typical diameter of the AE 2100 engine?

The typical diameter of the AE 2100 engine is 28.71 inches (72.9 cm). This measurement is important for understanding the engine's physical size and how it integrates into aircraft nacelles.

What is the dry weight of the AE 2100D3 engine?

The dry weight of the AE 2100D3 engine is 1,740 pounds (790 kg). This weight is a critical factor in aircraft performance calculations, including takeoff weight and payload capacity.

What is the air mass flow rate for the AE 2100D3?

The AE 2100D3 engine has an air mass flow rate of 36 pounds per second (16.3 kg/s). This value represents the amount of air the engine processes per unit of time, which is directly related to its thrust or power output.

What is the purpose of the 'See also' section in the article?

The 'See also' section provides links to related topics, such as other engines developed by Allison or Rolls-Royce (like the T56, AE 3007, T406), comparable engines from other manufacturers (GE38, PW150), and a general list of aircraft engines. This helps readers explore related information and understand the AE 2100 within a broader context.

What information is provided in the 'Bibliography' section?

The 'Bibliography' section lists key publications and sources used in the creation of the article. These include books like 'The History of North American Small Gas Turbine Aircraft Engines' and articles from aviation journals like 'Flight International' and 'Aviation Week & Space Technology', providing references for further research.

What external resources are linked for the Rolls-Royce AE 2100?

External resources linked for the AE 2100 include its product page on the Rolls-Royce website, archived links to Rolls-Royce technical documents, and a specification booklet for the Lockheed Martin C-130J. Additionally, a link to the Wikimedia Commons category for Rolls-Royce AE 2100 media is provided.

Rolls-royce Ae 2100 Wiki: Propulsion Mastery: The Rolls-Royce AE 2100 Turboprop Engine

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Introduction

The AE 2100: A Turboprop Powerhouse

The Rolls-Royce AE 2100 is a sophisticated turboprop engine family developed by the Allison Engine Company, now integrated into Rolls-Royce North America. Originally designated the GMA 2100 under Allison's former parent company, General Motors, this engine represents a significant advancement in turboprop technology. It is renowned for its power, efficiency, and reliability, making it a preferred choice for various military and civilian transport aircraft.

Key Applications

The AE 2100 engine family has been instrumental in powering several notable aircraft platforms. Its versatility and performance characteristics have led to its selection for:

The Alenia C-27J Spartan tactical airlifter.
The Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules military transport aircraft.
The Saab 2000 regional turboprop airliner.
The ShinMaywa US-2 search and rescue amphibious aircraft.

With over 2,300 units produced, the AE 2100 has established a strong presence in the aerospace industry.

Origins and Lineage

The AE 2100 is a direct derivative of the Allison AE 1107C-Liberty turboshaft engine, also known as the Rolls-Royce T406. This shared heritage means the AE 2100 benefits from the robust high-pressure core technology proven in other successful engine programs, including the Rolls-Royce AE 3007 turbofan. This commonality enhances manufacturing efficiency and operational support.

Development Milestones

Early Selections and Testing

The development trajectory of the AE 2100 began with significant early endorsements. In July 1989, Saab-Scania selected the GMA 2100 to power its new Saab 2000, a 50-seat regional turboprop. Shortly after, in July 1990, Indonesia's Industri Pesawat Terbang Nusantara (IPTN) chose the GMA 2100 for its N-250 regional airliner. Initial flight testing commenced in August 1990 using a Lockheed P-3 Orion testbed aircraft, accumulating over 50 hours of flight and ground validation.

C-130J Integration and Certification

A crucial milestone was the selection of the AE 2100D3 variant as the powerplant for the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules. The first test flight of this configuration occurred in March 1994. The engine subsequently powered the C-130J's maiden flight in April 1996. By April 1997, the AE 2100D3 variant achieved Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type certification, paving the way for its widespread adoption. As of 2018, over 2,000 D3 variants had been delivered.

Programmatic Expansion

The engine's utility was further recognized when Lockheed Martin and Alenia selected the AE 2100 for the C-27J Spartan tactical airlifter in June 1997. More recently, Alenia announced plans in October 2015 to introduce an uprated 5,100-shp version of the AE 2100 by 2017. Furthermore, Rolls-Royce is planning to establish an Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India to support the AE 2100 engines used by the Indian Air Force's C-130J fleet, enhancing regional support capabilities.

Engineering & Design Principles

Core Architecture

The AE 2100 is engineered as a free-turbine turboprop engine, built upon a robust two-shaft design. It leverages the high-pressure core common to the Allison T406 (used in the P-3 Orion) and the Rolls-Royce AE 3007 turbofan. This core is capable of delivering up to 10,000 shaft horsepower (shp), providing a strong foundation for the AE 2100's performance envelope.

Advanced Control Systems

A significant innovation in the AE 2100 design is its implementation of dual Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) systems. This advanced system manages both the engine's operation and the propeller, allowing for single-lever control. This integration optimizes performance, enhances fuel efficiency, and simplifies pilot workload, representing a pioneering step in turboprop engine control technology.

Compressor and Turbine Stages

The engine features a 14-stage axial compressor, incorporating variable inlet guide vanes and stator vanes for the initial five stages to optimize airflow management across the operating range. The combustor is of an annular design with 16 air-blast fuel injection nozzles. The turbine section comprises a two-stage high-pressure (HP) turbine driving the compressor and a two-stage free power turbine that drives the propeller via an integrated gearbox. The use of replaceable steel blades and vanes enhances reliability, albeit with a slight weight penalty compared to titanium alternatives.

Variants and Applications

Aircraft Integration

The AE 2100 engine family has been adapted for a variety of aircraft, with specific variants tailored to meet the unique requirements of each platform. The primary production variants and their associated aircraft include:

AE 2100A: Utilized on the Saab 2000 and as a testbed for the Lockheed P-3 Orion.
AE 2100C: Primarily used on the IPTN N-250 prototype.
AE 2100D2A: Powers the Alenia C-27J Spartan.
AE 2100D3: The primary variant for the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules and its civil variant, the LM-100J.
AE 2100J: A hybrid variant specifically developed for the ShinMaywa US-2 amphibious aircraft, featuring enhanced features for maritime operations.
Other Proposed Variants: AE 2100F (for C-130 retrofits), AE 2100G (proposed for ATR 82), AE 2100H (proposed for Dassault Atlantic MPA), AE 2100P (for Saab 2000 AEW&C), and AE 2100SD-7 (proposed for Future Large Aircraft).

Technical Specifications (AE 2100D3)

Performance Metrics

The AE 2100D3 variant, a key engine for the C-130J Hercules, exhibits impressive performance characteristics:

Type: Free-turbine turboprop engine.
Length: 124.12 inches (315.3 cm).
Diameter: 28.71 inches (72.9 cm).
Dry Weight: 1,740 lbs (790 kg).
Compressor: 14-stage axial.
Combustor: Annular.
Turbine: 2-stage HP, 2-stage Power Turbine (PT).
Max Power Output: 4,637 shp (3,458 kW).
Overall Pressure Ratio: 16.6:1.
Air Mass Flow: 36 lb/s (16.3 kg/s).
Specific Fuel Consumption (Takeoff): 0.460 lb/(hp·h) (0.209 kg/(hp·h)).
Power-to-Weight Ratio: 2.76 shp/lb (4.54 kW/kg).

The associated gearbox features a reduction ratio of approximately 14:1 and boasts a Mean Time Between Unscheduled Removals (MTBUR) exceeding 35,000 hours.

Related Information

Further Exploration

The Rolls-Royce AE 2100 is part of a broader ecosystem of aerospace engineering. Understanding its context involves exploring related engine families and design principles.

Related Allison/Rolls-Royce Engines: The AE 2100 shares lineage with engines like the Allison T56, AE 3007 turbofan, and the T406 turboshaft. Other notable engines include the AE 3007, BR700 series, and various turboprops and turboshafts developed by Allison and Rolls-Royce.
US Military Engine Designations: The AE 2100's military variants fall under the US military's engine designation system, which categorizes engines based on type and manufacturer.
External Resources: Official product information from Rolls-Royce provides detailed specifications and support data.

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Rolls-Royce AE 2100 Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Engineering Information Notice

This document has been generated by an AI and is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the Rolls-Royce AE 2100 turboprop engine. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, it is not a substitute for official technical documentation, engineering specifications, or expert consultation.

This is not professional engineering advice. The information presented here should not be used as the sole basis for aircraft design, maintenance, or operational decisions. Always consult official Rolls-Royce documentation, regulatory standards, and qualified aerospace engineers for any critical applications.

The creators of this page are not liable for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this information.

Propulsion Mastery

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Introduction ℹ️

⚙️ The AE 2100: A Turboprop Powerhouse

✈️ Key Applications

📜 Origins and Lineage

Development Milestones 📈

🚀 Early Selections and Testing

🛩️ C-130J Integration and Certification

🤝 Programmatic Expansion

Engineering & Design Principles 📐

💡 Core Architecture

💻 Advanced Control Systems

🌀 Compressor and Turbine Stages

Variants and Applications 🗂️

✈️ Aircraft Integration

Technical Specifications (AE 2100D3) 📏

📊 Performance Metrics

Related Information 🔗

📚 Further Exploration

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Engineering Information Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Introduction

The AE 2100: A Turboprop Powerhouse

Key Applications

Origins and Lineage

Development Milestones

Early Selections and Testing

C-130J Integration and Certification

Programmatic Expansion

Engineering & Design Principles

Core Architecture

Advanced Control Systems

Compressor and Turbine Stages

Variants and Applications

Aircraft Integration

Technical Specifications (AE 2100D3)

Performance Metrics

Related Information

Further Exploration

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Engineering Information Notice