---

Rolls-Royce has been awarded $1m of research funding from the US Navy for its FanSense digital foreign object debris (FOD) on-engine detection system. The year-long research contract will help develop and validate Rolls-Royce’s FanSense debris monitoring system, which is currently supporting the Pegasus engine.

According to Rolls-Royce, FanSense analyses the shaft speed signal of an engine and detects any disruptions that arise as a result of a small object, such as stones or screws, striking an engine fan blade.

The technology, applied as part of a wider service offering, will allow customers to detect much smaller debris entering the engine, enabling them to build a clearer picture of FOD damage and engine wear over time. In turn, this will help to identify airfields that need to improve their FOD prevention practices.

In a statement. Paul Craig, president of Defence Services, said: “FanSense is an innovative and revolutionary Rolls-Royce digital technology being packaged and applied to our products.

“The research funding granted by the US Navy will allow us to further enhance and build upon our pioneering technologies that will enhance safety, efficiency and deliver a cultural change for our customers.”

---