The prototype stage of the C929 project is progressing gradually, attracting widespread attention as a domestically developed dual-aisle wide-body aircraft aimed at challenging the duopoly of Airbus and Boeing in the wide-body aircraft market and creating a highly competitive aircraft.
Initially, the C929 project was developed by the China-Russia Commercial Aircraft International Corporation (CRAIC), a joint venture between China and Russia.
In a complex international context, COMAC (Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China) decided to independently continue the project to ensure its smooth progress.
The first prototype of the C929 began production in 2021.
After years of planning and design, this aircraft is about to enter the phase of actual delivery, representing a significant advancement in the Chinese aviation industry and becoming one of the highlights in both domestic and international aviation markets.
The engine selection for the C929 has attracted considerable attention.
General Electric's (GE) GEnx engine is one of the main candidates due to its high fuel efficiency and excellent technological features.
For such a complex, expensive, and far-reaching project, engine selection is crucial as it directly impacts the aircraft's operating costs, performance, and market competitiveness.
The choice of engines for the C929 involves the question of whether to break through with independent development or leverage cooperation, a decision that is crucial.
From the outset, COMAC has identified a broad blueprint for future markets at home and abroad because providing efficient solutions for global demands of 250 to 320-seat capacities is no easy task.
The CJ2000, as an indigenous engine prototype, is competitive in terms of thrust, fuel efficiency, and maintenance cycles, demonstrating China's strength in key areas.
The GEnx engine is a pride of GE Aviation, with its conventional single annular combustor and dual annular pre-mixing swirler technology making it synonymous with environmentally friendly practices.
Its lean-burn combustion design excels in energy saving and efficiency.
These technological features and cost-effectiveness have been validated in large aircraft, making the GEnx a favorite among global airlines, including COMAC.
The fan blades and high-pressure compressor of the GEnx engine employ advanced technology, making it stand out in the industry and earning it the nickname "black technology."
The fan blades use third-generation composite materials, lightweight yet robust, with a swept design optimizing aerodynamic performance.
The overall blisk technology of the high-pressure compressor increases the pressure ratio, ensuring performance stability.
Collaboration with GE is not new to COMAC, as GE's CF34-10A engine powers the ARJ21 aircraft.
This collaboration has improved efficiency by over 20%, crucial for the C929 project.
During the engine selection process, rigorous testing and evaluation were conducted, and the CJ2000 aviation engine, independently developed by China, was ultimately chosen.
This choice was based on the comprehensive performance of various indicators, assessed by a review panel with the power of veto.
The entire selection process was carefully planned, with each decision based on data and actual circumstances.
This is not only the story behind the C929 project but also a magnificent chapter in China's aviation industry moving towards the world.
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