|
| |
| Activity title | Progressive Rotorcraft Propulsion Alternatives | Activity Reference | AVT-378 | Panel | AVT | Security Classification | NATO UNCLASSIFIED | Status | Active | Activity type | RTG | Start date | 2022-09-01T00:00:00Z | End date | 2025-08-31T00:00:00Z | Keywords | Advanced Rotorcraft Propulsion, Hybrid Electric, Sustainable Alternative Jet Fuels, TurboElectric | Background | NATO has embarked on a climate change initiative with the objective of reducing the carbon footprint created during military operations. Rotorcraft platforms use carbon based fuels that generate greenhouse gases. As national rotorcraft platforms increase in both quantity and size, the carbon footprint will continue to expand. The objective of the study is to assess the applicability of Sustainable Alternative Jet Fuels (SAJF) and evolving electric propulsion technologies for a NATO medium lift rotorcraft (9,000-11,000 pound class platforms) with the goal to reduce the fleet carbon footprint 25 percent by 2035, while retaining or enhancing platform performance, maintainability, availability, and supportability. | Objectives | The study will focus on the scientific and technical feasibility of three rotorcraft propulsion alternatives. One, the use of novel non-fossil fuels for use in today’s gas turbine engines (SAJF). Second, the application of a turbo-electric propulsion system. And third, the application of a hybrid-electric system with energy provided from either battery, solar or fuel cell, or a combination. The advantages and disadvantages of each alternative will be assessed to determine the best technical approach that could be implemented in the medium term (5 to 15 years), for a medium lift rotorcraft platform (9,000-11,000 pound class). Logistics and supportability in the field by the deployed forces is an important consideration and may constrain, mitigate, or preclude the application of the best technical approach. Measures of effectiveness will be developed with the objective to reduce the level of hydrocarbon emissions, maintain, or enhance platform operational performance, minimize additional weight added to the platform, and the estimated infrastructure cost required to implement the best technical approach (fuel/electric generation and distribution). | Topics | The identification of alternative fuels that can be use in exiting gas turbine-engines, to include their effects on existing engine power generation levels and compatibility with existing engine subsystems and materials. The identification of battery technology and electrified propulsion technology integration to support a turbo-electric rotorcraft propulsion system that does not add to platform weigh and physical space when compared to a current baseline medium lift rotorcraft. The development and definition of a hybrid-electric rotorcraft propulsion system that will meet medium lift rotorcraft mission requirements. The available technology required for an all-electric solution is too far in the future to be addressed in this study. Key considerations in developing each of the solutions are weight, volume, power levels obtained, performance, safety, reliability, availability, flight duration and the projected reduction of greenhouse gas emissions when addressing representative flight profiles. | | Contact Panel Office |
| |
|
|
|
