Development of the GE Aviation Low Emissions TAPS Combustor for Next Generation Aircraft Engines

Abstract

GE Aviation has developed the low emissions, lean-burn, Twin Annular Premixing Swirler (TAPS) combustor for application in the next generation of aircraft engines. This paper describes the recent development of the TAPS combustor for application in the new GEnx-1B and GEnx-2B engines that power the new Boeing 787 and 747-8 wide-body aircraft, respectively. The combustor design approach, key design considerations and engine emissions data are discussed. The GEnx TAPS combustor emissions certification results showed NOx levels 52% below CAEP/6 standard while maintaining good CO, HC and smoke emissions.