The turbine consisted of hollow nickel steel blading on a forged steel turbine wheel which drove the compressor via a hollow shaft and flexible coupling . the inner compressor drum was driven directly but a reduction gearbox drove the outer drum at half speed.
2.
This upgrade is based on advancements made during the development of the elliptical leading edges in the compressor, smaller low-pressure turbine tip clearances, and new coating for the high-pressure compressor drum, as well as an upgrade to the engine control ( FADEC ) software.