Are Electric Propulsion Systems Coming

to Commercial Aircraft?

Dr. M.J. Benzakein AVP Aerospace and Aviation Research

EnergyTech2015

Nov. 30, 2015

Are Electric Propulsion Systems Coming to

Commercial Aircraft?

• History

• Why?

• Potential Architectures

• Challenges and Opportunities

The History

Efficiency Trends with Core and Propulsor Improvements

Propulsion system improvements require advances in both propulsor and

core technologies

Variation in Core Power with Turbine Inlet Temperature

Potential Electric Propulsion

Architecture

Initial Findings

• Battery powered will be restricted to general

aviation and commuter airplanes

• Fuel cells will not factor in as a propulsion device

in the foreseeable future

• Electric machines (generators, motors, power

converters) are the answer

• Non-cryogenic

• Cryogenic—will not be a factor in commercial

aircraft for the next 30 years

Motor Related Technologies and Power Electronics

Technology Benefits after 15 years (2027)

Technology Benefits after 30 years (2042)

Challenges and Opportunities

Challenges:

Need to significantly improve power densities and efficiencies of

components to become a significant factor in commercial fleet

Optimum power distribution on aircraft

Reliability

Certification

Will necessitate a total change in aircraft architecture

Opportunities:

Will provide a game changing environment

Fuel Burn/CO2 reduction and a great environmental impact

The US has provided the leadership in commercial

aviation for generations. Let us maintain it!

Thank you for your time!

Dr. M.J. Benzakein Director, Propulsion and Power Center