ASD team explores next-gen technologies at Rolls-Royce Derby
ASD team visits Rolls-Royce Derby facilities, exploring cutting-edge engine testing, including sand ingestion trials, and SAF-ready technologies for Destination 2050.
Last week, a contingent of the ASD team visited Rolls-Royce’s state-of-the-art engine facilities in Derby to dive deeper into the European innovations driving a greener, even safer future for air travel. The ASD team met with colleagues at Rolls-Royce for discussions on the company's plans and investment in innovation, and to visit their production and testing facilities, including the world-leading Testbed 80.
The visit highlighted Rolls-Royce's rigorous safety and testing culture, underpinned by sustained investment in advanced, SAF-ready infrastructure that supports innovation and a competitive aviation sector aligned with Destination 2050. Discussions provided valuable insights into Rolls-Royce's strategic investments in research, development and deployment of clean technologies, including their commitment to certifying all in-production civil engines for 100% sustainable aviation fuel operation.
During the production test facility tour, the team observed sand ingestion testing at the £90 million Test Bed 80 facility – the largest indoor aerospace engine testing facility globally. Sand ingestion testing simulates the extreme conditions engines encounter when operating in desert environments and dust storms, where sand and dust particles can degrade cooling systems in hot section components, create distress in protective coatings, and accelerate hardware damage.
Many airline customers operate in challenging environments such as the Middle East, where withstanding the impact of desert conditions creates significant engineering challenges. To further improve engine durability, Rolls-Royce launched a multi-phase enhancement programme as part of the £1 billion investment into their Trent engines. The first upgraded development engine is already undergoing testing, with more to follow throughout 2026.
This testing demonstrates Rolls-Royce's commitment to continuous safety improvements and innovation, ensuring engines can withstand extreme operating conditions such as desert environments and dust storms, thereby maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety.
The visit underscored how Rolls-Royce's investment in both environmental technologies and safety reflects our industry's commitment to keeping flying the safest way to travel, while simultaneously achieving the ambitious decarbonisation targets outlined in Destination 2050.
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