Cytec to provide advanced materials for Leap-1 engine

Speciality chemicals and materials technology firm Cytec Industries has been selected as the preferred advanced materials supplier for the leading edge aviation propulsion (Leap) high-bypass turbofan engine programme.

The Leap-1 engine is being developed by CFM International, a joint venture between Snecma (Safran) and GE Aviation.

The use of advanced composite materials in the Leap engine will reduce the aircraft weight by approximately 500lb.

According to Safran, the next-generation engine will reduce fuel consumption by 15%, nitrogen oxide emissions by 50% and noise by 15 decibels.

Cytec’s CYCOM PR520 resin system will be used in Leap-1 engine’s fan blades and containment cases.

CYCOM PR520 offers damage tolerance and strain capabilities required for primary structure aerospace applications and its performance characteristics increase the resin infusion processing window and help assure full fibre wetting.

Cytec Commercial Aerospace Materials vice-president Chris Pederson said: "Cytec is committed to deliver advanced material technologies that address and surpass customer requirements globally and optimise performance, production and manufacturing costs."

Leap-1 engines are an option for Airbus A320neo programme and have been selected for COMAC’s new single-aisle commercial jet C919.

Cytec plans to expand production capacities in Europe and the US to support the Leap engine programme.

Safran purchasing vice-president Xavier Dessemond said: "Our partner CYTEC already selected on Leap-1A and Leap-1C applications, understood the need to set up a full production capacity from the entry into service of the Leap."

Cytec develops prepregs, resins and adhesives that are mostly used in the aerospace and other high performance industrial applications.

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Image: Cytec’s CYCOM PR520 resin system will be used in Leap-1 engine’s fan blades and containment cases. Photo: courtesy of Eric Drouin / Safran group.