Fri Dec 08, 2017 3:53 pm
#1576342
I reckon that this experimental project is likely to go through a few iterations before it ends up as something viable. My guess is, that the project will have to face the fundamental problem that an aeroplane requires a lot of phase one power to taxi, take-off and climb to cruise speed and altitude, all with a payload. Once it gets there, it will need a lot less energy to keep it going in phase two cruise, followed by a descent, approach and landing (where it will need reserves of gas turbine power for a possible phase three go-around).
Given this scenario, it would seem likely they will go for gas turbine-powered phase one, and then switch to electric power either from batteries or an on-board generator of some kind (APU?). Interesting design challenge.
The energy balance will determine the design outcome.
One possibility might be liquid hydrogen + fuel cell, but I personally would not fancy the fire risk.
Given this scenario, it would seem likely they will go for gas turbine-powered phase one, and then switch to electric power either from batteries or an on-board generator of some kind (APU?). Interesting design challenge.
The energy balance will determine the design outcome.
One possibility might be liquid hydrogen + fuel cell, but I personally would not fancy the fire risk.