EVENDALE, Ohio -- GE Marine reports that it will supply Avio, Torino, Italy, with a third GE LM2500+G4 aeroderivative gas turbine for the European Multi-Mission Frigates (FREMM) program. The engine will be the basis for the COmbined Diesel And Gas turbine (CODAG) propulsion module that will power the French Navy's second FREMM ship.
The French and Italian Navies are jointly developing the FREMM program, and combined, the navies are slated to build a total of 27 next-generation frigates. GE has already contracted with Avio to supply two LM2500+G4 gas turbines for the initial two FREMM vessels. Avio is a GE Marine Systems Supplier, as well as the prime contractor for the FREMM gas turbine system.
The third FREMM LM2500+G4 gas turbine will be manufactured at GE's Evendale, Ohio facility, and will be delivered to Avio in 2009.
LM2500+G4 Testing Program
GE recently completed the 500-hour qualification test for its LM2500+G4 gas turbine, with the engine performing flawlessly in the company's Evendale test cell. The rigorous testing plan devised by GE is tailored so that, once complete, the engine will be certified by three key organizations: American Bureau of Shipping (naval vessel rules), Bureau Veritas and RINA S.p.A.
The disassembly and inspection of the tested LM2500+G4 gas turbine were recently witnessed by representatives of the certification agencies and shipyards. Re-assembly of the engine is currently underway. GE remains on target to receive certification by the end of 2007 through the above-mentioned organizations.
LM2500+G4
Introduced in October 2005, the LM2500+G4 version offers 17% more power than its LM2500+ predecessor, and has a 6% increase in airflow over the current LM2500+ model. The LM2500+G4 is expected to provide the same precedent setting 99.6% reliability of the LM2500, which currently has a strong fleet of more than 2,000 gas turbines in diverse marine and industrial applications.
The LM2500+G4 can be applied in a variety of mechanical and electric drive configurations, such as CODAG, and COmbined Gas turbine and steam turbine integrated Electric drive System (COGES) arrangements.
GE Marine is one of the world's leading manufacturers of marine products and services, including gas turbines ranging from 6,000 to 57,300 shaft horsepower, and marine main reduction gearing.