Pioneering Sustainable Air Travel: University of Nottingham's Cutting-Edge Hydrogen-Electric Propulsion System
Key Ideas
- The University of Nottingham is leading a £5.3 million research program, part of the broader £44 million H2FlyGHT project, to develop a 2-megawatt cryogenic hydrogen-electric propulsion system for more sustainable aircraft.
- The initiative integrates fuel cell power generation, cryogenic power distribution, and advanced drive systems to push the limits of aviation technology for net-zero air travel.
- The newly established hydrogen propulsion systems facility, with specialized laboratories and digital twinning capabilities, aims to optimize designs and operational performance through advanced simulations.
- By unlocking the potential of hydrogen through cryogenic technology, the research program addresses the challenges of compact, high-energy fuel storage essential for high-power, efficient propulsion systems.
The University of Nottingham has embarked on a groundbreaking £5.3 million research program as part of the larger £44 million H2FlyGHT project to develop a cutting-edge cryogenic hydrogen-electric propulsion system for aviation. Led by Professor Chris Gerada, the initiative aims to create a 2-megawatt prototype engine that could revolutionize the aviation industry by enabling larger and more sustainable aircraft. With support from the UK Government's Aerospace Technology Institute program, the collaboration involves key industry players like Parker Meggitt and the University of Manchester. The university's new hydrogen propulsion systems facility, equipped with specialized laboratories and digital twinning capabilities, will facilitate the development and optimization of the propulsion system. The research focuses on cryogenic technology to address compact, high-energy fuel storage challenges crucial for hydrogen-powered flight. The goal is to create high-power, efficient propulsion systems essential for the next generation of aircraft. The initiative, unveiled at the Farnborough International Airshow 2024, aims to accelerate economic prosperity in the East Midlands and support the growth of green industries and advanced manufacturing.
Topics
Aviation
Innovation
Aerospace
Sustainable Aviation
Power Systems
Research Program
Cryogenic Technology
Economic Prosperity
Advanced Manufacturing
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