Air-breathing propulsion

The progress in the field of Air-breathing technology by gas turbine manufacturers is described. The flight testing of a CF34-8 Growth engine on GE's 747 flying test bed was successfully completed at the GE Flight Test Center. The CF34-8 variants, all rated at 14,500 lb thrust, include CF34-8C5 for Bombardier's CRJ900 and CF34-8E for the Embraer ERJ 170. Distinguishing design features of these engines include improved high-pressure turbine vane materials that accommodate higher temepratures; a new, longer life high-pressure turbine rotor and improved cooling air delivery to the turbine blades.