Fan Disk

A fan disk is the part of a turbofan jet engine that contains the fan blades. It is considered one of the most critical components of the engine and has four main functions:

  • React to centrifugal loads from the fan blades - both during normal operation and during a fan blade off event
  • Provide attachment from the low pressure (LP) shaft to drive the fan and to retain the fan blades
  • Absorb impact loads
  • Provide attachment for the nose cone and other peripheral components

Because of the critical nature of this component, a fan disk failure is considered hazardous to the aircraft. They are usually made from a single titanium alloy forging.

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