Accelerated Mission Testing of Gas Turbine Engines

Abstract

Commercial and military aircraft engines are designed to meet specific usage requirements. In the past, verification of these designs was based on the successful completion of a model endurance test. The model test was a yardstick-type test and was not specifically designed to simulate actual usage. Flight experience has shown that this type of qualification testing is not representative of real usage. Today, new development engines are being tested to accelerated mission test cycles. These test cycles are designed to include all significant engine excursions and time at high power conditions in a representative fashion. The philosophy and methodology of mission-related testing of gas turbine engines are presented.