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Rolls-Royce aero hybrid-electric propulsion system sets a megawatt milestone

Rolls-Royce's PGS1 has now delivered more than a megawatt of power. [Credit: Rolls-Royce plc]

 

 

Rolls-Royce's hybrid-electric aero power and propulsion system called Power Generation System 1 (PGS1) has delivered more than a megawatt of power just weeks after starting its first testing phase -- and ramping up the power is in the works. PGS1 is a demonstrator aimed at proving technology for future hybrid-electric regional aircraft. The generator could also be used within what Rolls-Royce calls a "more-electric" system for larger aircraft or within future ground applications.

PGS1 reached the milestone at the newly renovated Testbed 108 in Bristol, UK. Testing is continuing with the aim of reaching up to 2.5 MW. When completed, the system will be the most powerful hybrid-electric power and propulsion system in aerospace.

PGS1 forms an important element of the company's sustainability strategy, which includes developing innovative electrical power and propulsion systems, as well as further improving gas turbine performance and promoting the use of sustainable aviation fuels.

Rolls-Royce's hybrid propulsion system equipment being prepared prior to testing. [Credit: Rolls-Royce plc]

 

 

"We've made a tremendous start to testing -- reaching a megawatt is a great achievement. Now we want to go further and see what we can ultimately achieve," said Adam Newman, chief project engineer, Aviation Futures, Rolls-Royce. "Our generator is about the size of a beer keg. ... When future hybrid-electric aircraft opportunities emerge in the megawatt-and-above class, we want to be as prepared as we can be to offer a ready-made solution."

Alan Newby, director, Aerospace Technology and Future Programs at Rolls-Royce, said of the ramp-up to reach 2.5 MW, "Our PGS1 tests will lead the way in finding out what this new generation of hybrid-electric propulsion system is capable of delivering. It needs to produce enough electricity to power around 2,500 homes -- and do so continuously. By doing these tests, we will be able to validate our digital modeling and find out precisely what is physically and technically possible."

The main parts of the PGS1 system are the generator, an AE2100 engine, specialist controls, and a thermal management system.

"We know that in a post COVID-19 world people will want to connect but do so more sustainably. Electrification offers a new way to power short-haul aircraft, and we want to be at the forefront of pioneering this technology," added Newby.

Both Testbed 108 and PGS1 have been supported by the UK Aerospace Technology Institute's MegaFlight project. The electrical generator, motor, and power electronics design, make, and testing has taken place in Trondheim, Norway, and has been supported by the EU Clean Sky 2 program.

Source: Rolls-Royce

Published December 2021

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