Succeeding Honda's original HF118 prototype, the HF120 was undergoing testing in July 2008, with certification targeted for late 2009.[2] The first engines were produced at GE's factory, but in November 2014 production shifted to Burlington, North Carolina.[3] The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) awarded Part 33 certification to the HF120 turbofan engine in December 2013, and production certification in 2015.[4]
Design
The engine has a wide-chord swept fan, two-stage low-pressure compressor and counter rotating high-pressure compressor based on a titanium impeller, for a 2,050 lbf (9.1 kN) takeoff thrust.[5] The HF120 engine's components interact with greater efficiency by incorporating 3D aerodynamic design, and its effusion-cooled combustor design emits low NOx, CO and HC. Noise levels are quieter than Stage 4 requirements.[6]
In May 2016 time between overhaul was 2,500 h, which was expected to mature to 5,000 h; a midlife hot-section inspection is not required, and it is expected to remain on wing 40% longer than other engines and have lower operating costs.[7]