MAX flights suspended after concern about LEAP-1B LPT
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10 May 2017 - MAX flights suspended after concern about LEAP-1B LPT
Boeing has suspended all MAX flying after CFM notified them about a "quality concern" in the low pressure turbine discs of Leap-1B engines. Boeing says it is working with CFM to inspect the discs in question.
The problem was discovered during a quality inspection by CFM of an engine in a factory, in the low pressure turbine (LPT) discs. CFM has double or triple sourced 80% of the LEAP engine’s outsourced components, and has two LPT suppliers. Only one supplier’s LPTs are at issue.
The LEAP-1B features 3D-wove, composite fan blades and fan case and ceramic matrix composites in the second-stage high-pressure turbine shrouds. The LPT has titanium-aluminide blades.
The LEAP-1A flown on the A320 NEO is unaffected because the low pressure turbine disc is different design and made by a different supplier.
Boeing has flown more than 2,000h on the 27K LEAP-1B 737 Max 8 and has not detected any problems with the LPT discs.
The first MAX is due to be delivered to Batik Air Malaysia to commence services on 18 May 2017.
May 11: Jamie Jewell spokeswoman for CFM said Boeing has engines at its factory without the suspected parts, but CFM and Boeing "have to demonstrate to the FAA's satisfaction that the issue is not present".
May 12: Boeing says in a statement “Today we resumed some 737 Max flight activities. Regulatory agencies support this action,”
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*** Updated 05 Aug 2023 ***
