French/Russian Collaboration To Power Sukhoi Superjet 100

The SaM146 regional jet engine passed its final certification test, a medium bird ingestion test, last week, which completed all tests required for certification. The SaM146 is designed and produced by PowerJet, a joint venture between the French company Snecma (Safran group) and Russia-based NPO Saturn.

"For us, this (was) a tremendous opportunity to announce the successful completion of the SaM146 certification tests during the 2010 RAA Annual Convention in Milwaukee," said Jean-Paul Ebanga, Chairman and CEO of PowerJet.

PowerJet is now in the home stretch for EASA certification in the coming weeks, which is expected to be followed closely by approval from Avia Register of Russia.

PowerJet completed all of the last major SaM146 tests in 2010, including the fanblade out test on May 6. Earlier in the year the engine passed its block test, demonstrating performance under extreme operating conditions. The SaM146 also posted successful results on the vibration survey and low pressure turbine stress tests, highlighting its outstanding reliability.

Throughout the certification test program, the SaM146's performance has fully matched or exceeded expectations. To date the SaM146 has logged 7,000 hours of testing, including 3,500 hours in flight. At the same time, PowerJet is focusing on the ramp-up in engine production, while also preparing for the service entry of the Sukhoi Superjet 100.

"We are very proud of the SaM146's performance," added Jean-Paul Ebanga. "These results reflect the proven expertise of Snecma and NPO Saturn, and their ability to develop a state-of-the-art and top quality aircraft engine."

FMI: www.powerjet.aero