The Honeywell 1 MW generator is an advanced, compact and efficient power system that can be used as a 1 MW motor without modification.
Honeywell has successfully completed the first round of testing of its 1 mw generator. Designed as a new airborne power source for hybrid aircraft, the system is the first aviation-class generator that can operate as a 1-megawatt motor without any modifications.
In this round of successful tests, the generator operated at 1.02 MEv amps (approximately 1 MW/at power factor 1) and tested continuous operation at 900 kW. The generator's power density of up to 8 kW/kg and efficiency of up to 97% are key elements of hybrid propulsion systems in aviation and ground application scenarios.
Honeywell's one-megawatt generator weighs about 280 pounds, as much as a small motorcycle, and can power an entire city block. The compact, lightweight design and fuel economy provide sustainability and operational benefits for hybrid propulsion and many other applications, such as mobile charging stations and turbine power generation systems with range to cover remote areas.
"Honeywell megawatt class generators are a new addition to our broad product portfolio," said Dave Marinick, president of Honeywell Aerospace's Engine and Powertrain business. This is an important step forward in providing scalable solutions that promote industry innovation and support more sustainable and efficient operations. "The system uses advanced and compact technology to achieve critically high power, which has a positive impact on future flight and aviation hybrid propulsion."
Compared to other aviation generators on the market today, the Honeywell product offers a distinct advantage in key features:
· Its efficiency of up to 97% is significantly better than the general efficiency of 88%-90%;
· The power density of 8 kW/kg is several times the 2-3 kW/kg level of most products.
"Over the years, our experienced research and design teams have developed cutting-edge technologies to help customers identify and meet their needs while driving industry innovation," said Taylor Alberstadt, Senior director of Honeywell Aerospace's Electric and Hybrid Propulsion business. The development of megawatt generators is another example of innovation that allows equipment to increase power density several times over current market levels while ensuring size and weight to meet aviation requirements. In addition, the megawatt class is able to seamlessly integrate with our existing gas turbine engines into turbo-generators with excellent power density performance and use sustainable aviation fuel. This is an exciting development that will help usher in a new era of cleaner, more affordable air travel."
Turbo-generator solutions can provide electricity to run high-powered electric motors, recharge batteries, or mechanically drive propellers if necessary to meet the needs of heavy cargo drones or air taxis and commuter planes.
The project team is currently working to increase the system's capability to support continuous operational testing for higher power levels.