Volvo RM-12

Description

The Volvo RM12 is a low-bypass afterburning turbofan jet engine developed for the Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter. A version of the General Electric F404, the RM12 was produced by Volvo Aero (now GKN Aerospace Engine Systems). Produced by Volvo Aero (now GKN Aerospace Engine Systems), the RM12 is a derivative of the General Electric F404-400. Changes from the standard F404 includes greater reliability for single-engine operations (including more stringent birdstrike protection), increased thrust, and the adoption of a full authority digital engine control (FADEC) system. [1][2] Several subsystems and components were also redesigned to reduce maintenance demands.3] The air intakes of the engine were designed to minimize radar reflection from the compression fan, reducing the radar cross section of the aircraft overall. 2] The F404's analogue Engine Control Unit was replaced with the Digital Engine Control - jointly developed by Volvo and GE - which communicates with the cockpit through the digital data buses and, as redundancy, a hydromechanical backup. Hydromechanical backup remains in the new Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) which Volvo began developing in 1996. [2] General Electric produces 50% of the engine. Elements such as the fan/compressor discs and case, compressor spool, hubs, seals, and afterburner are manufactured in Sweden, final assembly also taking place there. [2] JAS 39 Gripen IAI Nammer (as designed, not built) General characteristics Type…