Parallel hybrid electric propulsion architecture for single aisle aircraft - powertrain investigation

Abstract

This paper presents an investigation of the fuel- and energy-saving potential through the introduction of several hybrid electric propulsion (HEP) and more electric aircraft (MEA) systems on single aisle aircraft. More specifically, for an A320NEO the following main electric systems are considered: electric motors, batteries and power electronics for parallel HEP, electric components for replacement of the main pneumatic and hydraulic non-propulsive systems like environmental control system and actuators, and electric power transport and supply. The power sizing of the electric components, as well as their mass effects on overall aircraft mission performance are evaluated by system modelling of the aircraft, turbofan and the considered electric components. It is found for the considered aircraft and missions that the fuel saving potential of parallel HEP systems alone is very limited or absent. Typically the combination of HEP and MEA technologies shows potential for improved energy efficiency due to synergies of the involved systems and their operation.