June 20, 2011 - An industry leading integrated propulsion system (IPS) will be highlighted at the Paris Air Show, where a functional scale model demonstrating key elements of this next-generation configuration will be displayed by Nexcelle, the engine nacelle joint venture of GE Aviation’s Middle River Aircraft Systems and the Safran group’s Aircelle company. 

Nexcelle’s half-scale model will highlight many of the company’s integrated propulsion system features that are to reduce fuel consumption, improve performance and enhance maintenance for jet engine applications on commercial airliners.  

They include a low drag front end with single-piece air inlet; a fan cowl which is structurally integrated to the engine; a translating O-duct thrust reverser that provides improved fan flowpath while eliminating door links, lower bifurcation, latches and split lines; and the new integrated mounting system for reduced engine distortion and enhanced on-wing performance.

“We invested in this high-fidelity model to visually and mechanically demonstrate why Nexcelle’s IPS technologies will deliver real performance advantages in new propulsion systems,” said Nexcelle President Steve Walters. “It takes our technology roadmap from paper to a practical demonstration, and underscores the progress we are making in bringing the IPS to reality.” 

The functional scale model will be located on the Paris Air Show exhibit of Safran – the parent company of Nexcelle’s joint venture partner company, Aircelle (Hall 2A, Stand A232 at Le Bourget Airport). 

Nexcelle has been selected to supply the engine nacelle systems for two major engine programs: the CFM International LEAP-X1C integrated propulsion system on COMAC’s C919 airliner and the GE Passport 20 engine for Bombardier’s Global 7000 and 8000 business jet aircraft. 

Nexcelle is creating smart nacelle systems for tomorrow’s world travel. Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, the company is a joint venture of Aircelle and Middle River Aircraft Systems (MRAS), which are leading suppliers of engine nacelles, thrust reversers and aerostructures.