Propulsion System Requirements for Long Range, Supersonic Aircraft

Abstract

This paper discusses the requirements for the propulsion system of supersonic cruise aircraft that are quiet enough to fly over land and operate from civil airports, have trans-pacific range in the order of 11,112km(6000nmi), and payload in the order of 4545kg(10,000lb.). It is concluded that the resulting requirements for both the fuel consumption and engine thrust/weight ratio for such aircraft will require high compressor exit and turbine inlet temperatures, together with bypass ratios that are significantly higher than typical supersonic-capable engines. Several technologies for improving both the fuel consumption and weight of the propulsion system are suggested. Some of these directly reduce engine weight while others, by improving individual component performance, will enable higher bypass ratios. The latter should therefore also indirectly reduce the bare engine weight. It is emphasized, however, that these specific technologies require considerable further development. While the use of higher bypass ratio is a significant departure from more usual engines designed for supersonic cruise, it is nonetheless considered to be a practical option for an aircraft of this kind.