Collins Aerospace has begun testing hybrid-electric powertrain subsystems for the EU’s SWITCH research program, which aims to demonstrate hybrid-electric technology on a full-scale Pratt & Whitney GTF engine.
Integrated laboratory tests of the powertrain subsystem, including two megawatt-class motor generators, controllers and power distribution systems, are taking place at The Grid, Collins’ advanced electric power systems facility in Rockford, Illinois. The validated subsystems will be integrated within a hybrid-electric Pratt & Whitney GTF engine demonstrator as part of the next phase of testing.
The SWITCH project is focused on demonstrating the potential of hybrid-electric technologies to optimize engine efficiency across different phases of flight for future short- and medium-range aircraft.
Kristin Smith, vice president of electric power systems at Collins Aerospace, said, “The start of powertrain subsystem testing is a key step towards demonstrating the potential of applying more electric systems to future commercial aircraft. Hybrid-electric technology has the potential to transform aviation by enabling greater fuel efficiency across multiple future platforms, including next-generation single-aisle aircraft.”
The powertrain incorporates components developed across European facilities. Collins Aerospace designed and produced the megawatt-class electric motors and controllers at its Solihull facility in the UK, while power distribution components, including a solid-state power controller and a power distribution panel, were designed in Nördlingen, Germany.
The high-voltage electrical wiring interconnection system was developed by GKN Aerospace and built in Papendrecht, Netherlands.
SWITCH also involves MTU Aero Engines, GKN Aerospace, Airbus and several European research institutions.
Collins is engaged in other EU research programs targeting hybrid-electric propulsion, including the HECATE program, which ended in January. HECATE validated a 500kW hybrid-electric power distribution architecture at technology readiness level 5 using a copper bird test platform in France.
