The Power of the GE90-115B Engine on a Boeing 777

I am truly impressed by the technological engineering that goes into the Boeing 777-300ER’s (and -200LR’s) engine, the GE90-115B. It is currently the largest and most powerful turbofan engine in service, but it may soon be surpassed by the GE9X, a much bigger engine that will power the Boeing 777-9X. In fact, the engine is so big that it is comparable to the cabin width of a Boeing 737.

The GE90-115B turbofan engine is a high-bypass turbofan engine that boasts a fan diameter of 128 inches, making it the largest jet engine in the world. The engine generates an impressive 115,540 pounds of thrust, a record for commercial jet engines.

Key specifications include:

• Thrust: 115,300 pounds
• Fan Diameter: 128 inches
• Length: 287 inches
• Weight: 18,260 pounds
• Compressor: 10-stage high-pressure
• Turbine: 2-stage high-pressure and 6-stage low-pressure

These specifications contribute to the engine’s remarkable performance, enabling the Boeing 777 to carry large payloads over long distances efficiently.

The GE90-115B engine also delivers exceptional fuel efficiency. Its high-bypass design means that a large volume of air bypasses the engine core, providing thrust more efficiently. This design reduces fuel consumption and emissions, making it an environmentally friendly option for long-haul flights.

The engine’s advanced materials and technologies, such as composite fan blades and a ceramic matrix composite (CMC) turbine shroud, contribute to its durability and performance. These innovations allow the engine to operate at higher temperatures and pressures, improving efficiency and reducing maintenance costs.

Comparing the GE90-115B to Cars and Ships

Power Equivalent in Cars

To put the power of the GE90-115B into perspective, it helps to compare it to the power output of cars. The average car engine produces about 200 horsepower. One pound of thrust is roughly equivalent to 2 horsepower, so the GE90-115B’s 115,300 pounds of thrust equates to approximately 209,745 horsepower per engine.

This means that the GE90-115B engine generates power equivalent to over 1,155 average cars. This comparison highlights the immense power packed into a single jet engine and underscores the engineering required to harness and manage this power safely and efficiently.

Power Equivalent in Ships

Comparing the GE90-115B to marine engines provides another perspective on its power. Modern container ships use large diesel engines that produce between 60,000 to 80,000 horsepower. Using the same conversion (1 pound of thrust = 2 horsepower), the GE90-115B’s 209,745 horsepower far exceeds the power output of most ship engines.

For example, the engine on a large container ship like the Emma Maersk produces about 80,000 horsepower. The GE90-115B has almost three times this power, highlighting its extraordinary capabilities and the scale of power it delivers for aviation.

Technological Advancements and Innovations

One of the key technological advancements in the GE90-115B engine is the use of composite materials. The engine features fan blades made from composite materials, which are lighter and stronger than traditional metal blades. These blades can withstand higher stress and temperatures, contributing to the engine’s efficiency and durability.

The use of composite materials extends to the fan case, which also reduces weight and improves fuel efficiency. These materials help reduce the overall weight of the engine, allowing for better performance and lower operating costs.

The GE90-115B incorporates advanced aerodynamic designs to optimize airflow and reduce drag. The fan blades have a unique swept design that improves airflow efficiency and reduces noise. The engine’s high-pressure compressor and turbine stages are designed to operate at higher pressures and temperatures, improving thermal efficiency and reducing fuel consumption.

These aerodynamic improvements result in higher thrust-to-weight ratios and better overall performance, making the GE90-115B one of the most advanced and efficient jet engines available.

The GE90-115B engine’s design includes features that reduce its environmental impact. Its high-bypass ratio and advanced combustion technology help reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The engine’s fuel efficiency also means that it consumes less fuel per mile flown, contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions.

General Electric Aviation has focused on making the GE90-115B not only powerful but also environmentally friendly, aligning with global efforts to reduce the aviation sector’s carbon footprint.

The Impact on Airline Operations

The immense power of the GE90-115B engine allows the Boeing 777 to carry larger payloads over greater distances. This capability is crucial for airlines operating long-haul routes, enabling them to transport more passengers and cargo efficiently. The engine’s power and efficiency extend the range of the Boeing 777, allowing it to serve a broader range of destinations without refueling stops.

The GE90-115B engine’s advanced design and materials contribute to its reliability and longevity. The engine has a long time on wing (TOW) between overhauls, reducing maintenance costs and downtime for airlines. This reliability is critical for maintaining flight schedules and ensuring that aircraft remain operational without frequent interruptions.

The engine provides significant economic benefits to airlines. Its fuel efficiency reduces operating costs, while its high thrust enables airlines to maximize payload capacity. These factors contribute to higher profitability and better return on investment for airlines operating Boeing 777 aircraft equipped with GE90-115B engines.