Electric power to make aircraft greener
Aircraft around the world has become much safer in the last two decades, largely due to high-tech advances in the field, as well as constant research and development. One such area of research involves making aircraft architecture more robust using electrical power control. The EU-funded ELPOC (Electrical Power Control – More Electric Aircraft) took up the challenge to develop new aircraft architecture options that can be enhanced by using power electronic controls and electrical system technology as opposed to fuel. It developed relevant system technologies through sub-system and system testing prior to integration into an aircraft systems rig. More specifically, the project team outlined how European industry can support and de-risk Airbus in relation to Systems for Green Operation (SGO). In addition, the team developed the Variable Frequency Starter Generator and Engine Start Motor Control Unit technologies. It also designed and produced a new starter generator with a 200KVA capacity, along with the required power electronics, increasing the availability of electrical power within the aircraft. After rigorous testing, the team fine-tuned the technology and design of the prototype equipment. This resulted in much more optimised technology that can deliver better results in terms of enhancing aircraft performance with electrical power. The prototypes developed and the research results that have emerged promise much more efficient and greener aircraft in the future.
Keywords
Aircraft, electric power, ELPOC, SGO, starter generation
