Materials such as aluminum alloys (A7075) are often mentioned as candidates for use in the manufacture of Fan Outlet Guide Vane components. As a part of weight-saving of the HF120 turbofan engine, an Fan Outlet Guide Vane made from CFRP was developed.Sheet Molding Compound containing approximately 60% carbon fiber was used for the Fan Outlet Guide Vane. In order to apply the Sheet Molding Compound to the Outlet Guide Vane, material certification from the United States Federal Aviation Administration was acquired.To utilize the light-weight characteristics of CFRP, the shroud and vane were integrally molded. The introduction of Sheet Molding Compound permitted the number of prepreg laminations reducing to six, even on the thick vane section, as well as achieving near-net-shape press molding within 20 minutes. As a result, weight was reduced by 40% in comparison with A7075, and press molding process time was reduced by 90% in comparison with the continuous fiber Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Thermo-Plastic’s molding process.Outlet Guide Vane components underwent assessments such as impact and fatigue testing to ensure the successful completion of engine certification testing. Subsequently with the completion of certification testing, the application of CFRP Outlet Guide Vane in the HF120 has been achieved.
Article of Honda R&D Technical Review Vol.26 No.2 (33 - 37)