Rolls-Royce is testing the Pearl 10X engine on Dassault’s developmental Falcon 10X

Rolls-Royce is ramping up testing on the Pearl 10X engine that will power Dassault’s developmental Falcon 10X ultra-long-range business jet.

To date, the powerplant program has accumulated 1,000h, using both the initial Pearl 10X test engine and the manufacturer’s Advance2 demonstrator.

First runs for the over 18,000lb thrust (80kN)-rated engine took place earlier this year, beating its targeted thrust levels.

Rolls-Royce says the testing to date “has proved the reliability of the engine” and shows it will meet Dassault’s performance requirements. The Pearl 10X is the first Rolls-Royce powerplant to be selected by the French airframer.

Evaluations so far have included trials of a new 3D-printed ultra-low-emission combustor – compatible with 100% sustainable aviation fuel – and a new accessory gearbox.

The first full powerplant housed within its Spirit AeroSystems-designed nacelle will enter the test programme later this year.

Dr Dirk Geisinger, director business aviation, Rolls-Royce, says: “Our Pearl 10X team is extremely focussed on the development of the engine and it makes me proud to see the continuous progress of the programme.”

The Pearl 10X uses the engine core developed under the Advance2 programme and combines it with a new low-pressure system. Rolls-Royce claims the new turbofan is 5% more efficient than the previous generation of its business jet engines. flightglobal.com