Abstract: The invention is an improved inlet particle separator for removing extraneous matter from a stream of air directed into the engine's core section. The improved separator utilizes two stages of separation. The first stage is an axial flow separator for initially separating engine inlet air into a first flow of relatively contaminated air and a second flow of relatively clean air. This first stage of separation is accomplished by sharply turning the air flow radially inwardly so that the relatively dense extraneous matter continues in its original direction into a scavenge system. A second stage of separation is accomplished in the scavenge system and comprises a centrifugal separator that separates the first flow of air into third and fourth flows of relatively contaminated air for the purpose of protecting a blower that powers the flow through the scavenge system and which is in flow communication with only the relatively less contaminated fourth flow of air.

Abstract: Disclosed is a bladed disk assembly having a new and improved rotor blade. The blade includes a shank and dovetail extending from an airfoil portion thereof. The shank includes a pocket extending therein from an end surface thereof. The shank pocket allows for reduced weight of the blade while maintaining acceptable bending stiffness thereof. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the bladed disk assembly is effective for being interchangeable with a blisk assembly having an inlet hub radius ratio of about less than about 0.5 and a root solidity of greater than about 2.2.