Electric Fan Thruster

In this project, GKN and KTH will develop an electric fan and lay the foundation for continued work that result in a demonstrator powered by hydrogen fuel cells in 2025. Entry into service for this new engine is targeted in 2035.

GKN Aerospace makes the assessment that smaller aircraft, suitable for regional flights, can use electric fans for propulsion when fuel cells are used as the energy source. The introduction of electric fans is estimated to reduce yearly global emissions of CO2 by 10 million ton. Multi-disciplinary design will be done considering energy consumption, safety, weight and noise.

The outcome of the project will be a conceptual model of the fan module as well as an experiment performed on a key engine component.

Knowledge exchange with a British project lead by GKN UK on fuel cells and power electronics for a 19 passenger aircraft will enable assessment of the impact of an electric fan on an aircraft level, and determine noise, safety and fuel savings.