Collins Sees Battery Obsolescence Issue In Hybrid-Electric Designs

Hybrid-Electric Flight Faces a Battery Hurdle

The push for more sustainable aviation is driving significant investment in hybrid-electric propulsion systems. However, a key challenge is emerging: the potential for rapid battery obsolescence and the complexities of long-term replacement, according to Todd Spierling, principal technical fellow for electrification at Collins Aerospace.

The Battery Replacement Dilemma

Intensive battery leverage in hybrid-electric aircraft will inevitably lead to the necessitate for replacements. This isn’t simply a matter of swapping out a component; it’s a potential logistical and financial undertaking. The lifespan of batteries, coupled with the rapid pace of technological advancement in battery technology, means that current battery designs could develop into outdated relatively quickly.

Collins Aerospace’s Progress in Hybrid-Electric Technology

Despite this challenge, Collins Aerospace is making strides in the development of hybrid-electric systems. The company has begun testing electric motor drive systems as part of the Clean Aviation SWITCH project, aiming to demonstrate this technology on a full-scale Pratt & Whitney PW1100G geared turbofan (GTF). Initial powertrain testing is underway at Collins’ Grid advanced electric power systems lab. This work builds on the completion of the HECATE project, achieving Technology Readiness Level 5 (TRL5) and demonstrating electrical architecture design under real-world conditions.

Clean Aviation Initiatives: SWITCH and HECATE

The SWITCH project, focused on hybrid-electric technology, is a key component of the broader Clean Aviation initiative. The HECATE project, recently completed with support from UK Research and Innovation, has been instrumental in developing power converters and other systems crucial for hybrid-electric propulsion. These projects are focused on developing systems for future airliners.

Beyond Batteries: Power Conversion and System Integration

The development isn’t solely focused on batteries. Collins Aerospace is also heavily involved in creating the necessary power conversion systems to effectively integrate electric motors with traditional gas turbine engines. This includes developing controllers and power distribution systems, as demonstrated in the HECATE program.

Industry Collaboration and Future Outlook

The advancements being made by Collins Aerospace are part of a larger industry trend toward electrification. The company’s work with Pratt & Whitney on the GTF engine demonstrates a collaborative approach to tackling the challenges of hybrid-electric flight. Continued testing and development will be crucial to address the battery obsolescence issue and unlock the full potential of this technology.

FAQ

• What is the Clean Aviation SWITCH project? It’s a European Union initiative aimed at demonstrating hybrid-electric technology on a full-scale aircraft engine.
• What was the HECATE project? It was a research and development project focused on developing hybrid-electric propulsion systems for future airliners, achieving TRL5.
• What is Collins Aerospace’s role in hybrid-electric propulsion? They are developing electric motor drive systems, power converters, controllers, and power distribution systems.