Fuel efficient engine

For obvious reasons, developing an engine that consumes less energy is central to efforts to develop greener aircraft.

A team at Pratt & Whitney Canada is currently developing a new, ultra-efficient high pressure compressor to enhance engine performance. The higher the pressure inside the compressor, the higher the thermodynamic cycle, which means less fuel is needed. To do so, Pratt & Whitney Canada is developing advanced components for this type of compressor and increasing the overall pressure ratio. The increase in the pressure ratio also allows for a reduction in component size and weight, another important element in the development of greener aircraft.

The project will also require the development of new materials because those currently in use can not withstand the heat generated by increased pressure. Pratt & Whitney Canada is also looking to develop new processes to reduce manufacturing and maintenance costs for new engines. Finally, the project aims to develop more efficient electrical components that will facilitate integration of the engine into future generations of aircraft.