Airbus UpNext and Toshiba Energy Systems & Solutions Corporation have agreed to cooperate on superconductivity research for hydrogen-powered aircraft.
The partnership aims to develop a 2MW superconducting motor and they will begin conducting feasibility studies to achieve this. H2 View understands that superconducting technologies offer an advantage to hydrogen aircraft, using -253°C liquid hydrogen as a fuel and cooling device.
Cryogenic technology could allow for a “nearly unimpaired power transmission” within the aircraft’s electric systems, which improves their energy efficiency and performance. The wholly-owned Airbus subsidiary recently launched Cryoprop, a 2MW superconducting electric propulsion system demonstrator.
Furthermore, Toshiba has been conducting R&D for superconducting technology applications and has released its own 2MW superconductivity motor prototype for mobility applications in 2022.
“Through this collaboration, we aim to deliver a breakthrough technology that could unlock new design possibilities, in particular for Airbus’ future hydrogen-powered aircraft,” explained Grzegorz Ombach, Airbus’ Senior Vice-President and Head of Disruptive R&T.
“This partnership represents a natural and essential step in advancing superconducting motor technology to meet the needs of the aerospace industry.”
Tsutomu Takeuchi, Toshiba’s Corporate Officer and Director of Toshiba Energy Systems & Solutions Corporation, claimed the partnership with Airbus will be key in advancing technologies for the future aerospace sector.
“Toshiba’s expertise in superconducting technology for high current flow, motor drive technology for precise current control, and advanced rotating machinery technology for stale, high-speed operation, forms a strong foundation for this partnership,” Takeuchi added.
“We both recognise the tremendous potential of superconducting technologies in shaping the future of aircraft and driving the decarbonisation of the aviation industry.”
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