GE9X engine for the 777X to feature fewer, thinner composite fan blades

GE Aviation says that its all-new GE9X engine being developed for the Boeing 777X airplane will feature fewer and thinner composite fan blades than the GEnx, using a high-stiffness carbon fiber and new epoxy matrix resin.

GE Aviation (Evendale, Ohio, USA) reported on Aug. 26 that its GE9X engine for the Boeing 777X aircraft will feature fewer and thinner composite fan blades than any GE widebody engine in service. To do this, GE is designing a new composite fan blade using next-generation carbon fiber composite material.

GE Aviation says the new material incorporates a higher stiffness carbon fiber and a new epoxy resin. The leading edge material will also be modified from titanium to a steel alloy to further enhance the blade’s strength. GE Aviation declined to reveal type of carbon fiber that will be used, the type of epoxy that will be used, nor who the material suppliers would be.

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