A new small gas turbine from Rolls-Royce has successfully completed its first fuel burn. This gas turbine was developed by Rolls-Royce to power hybrid-electric flights. The engine was designed using new combustion technology to produce ultra-low emissions. This achievement confirms the effectiveness of the compact, high-performance turbine, which will be integrated into a lightweight turbo-generator system.
The complete turbogenerator system developed Rolls-Royce for the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) market. This includes electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) or electric short take-off and landing (eSTOL) aircraft for urban air mobility (UAM) and commuter aircraft with up to 19 seats. The gas turbine in the test also has potential applications in helicopters, auxiliary power units (APUs) and defence.
More flight paths
Rolls-Royce is developing all-electric and hybrid-electric power and propulsion systems for the Advanced Air Mobility market. "This important test follows a development time of the new gas turbine from concept phase to 'pass to test' in less than two years. The turbogenerator system enables our customers to expand their hybrid-electric flights. It also means that more passengers will be able to continue travelling in low- and possibly zero-emission aircraft." So says Matheu Parr, Customer Director Electrical.
Increased range
The turbogenerator system complements Rolls-Royce's portfolio of electric propulsion. By providing an on-board power source with a scalable power range between 500 kW and 1,200 kW, it enables a longer range.
14 subsystems
The test facilities and equipment included a total of 14 subsystems. They were designed, procured and built - or modified - by a global team. This was done in a record time of just under a year. The test rig consists of standard components such as valves and hoses, and customised subsystems. Examples include fuel injection systems, oil and ventilation systems, engine mounts and water brakes. The team adapted the technology to the specific testing requirements for this new technology.
More knowledge
Initial testing helped the team develop highly relevant knowledge. Real data could also be collected to verify key technical features of the design. This allows the design to be adapted for the next series of tests. The goal is to eventually arrive at a mature and certified engine with world-class performance for this new market segment.
Net-zero ambition Rolls-Royce
Parr: "With this achievement, we have proved that we can apply our expertise to new designs. And we are able to test these at very short notice. This capability will help Rolls-Royce deliver the products that contribute to our goal of achieving net-zero within the ambitious industry timelines of the Advanced Air Mobility market."
Serial or hybrid applications
The turbogenerator can be used in serial or parallel hybrid applications. It is very suitable for charging batteries. It is also ideally suited to supply power directly to electric propulsion units. This allows aircraft to switch between energy sources in flight. The research and development of this technology is partly funded by the German Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Action.
Complete power and propulsion systems
Rolls-Royce develops complete power and propulsion systems for all-electric and hybrid-electric applications. The portfolio includes the latest technology, from power generation and energy storage through power electronics and control systems to electric motors.
Photo: Rolls-Royce
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