Torque-speed characteristics for electrically powered rim driven fans and thrust comparison with a small conventional fan jet engine

Bolam, Robert, Roque, Jhon Paul, Vagapov, Yuriy and Day, Richard (2022) Torque-speed characteristics for electrically powered rim driven fans and thrust comparison with a small conventional fan jet engine. In: 57th IEEE International Universities Power Engineering Conference UPEC-2022, 30 Aug. - 2 Sept. 2022, Istanbul, Turkey.

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Abstract

The aim of this paper is to provide a method of estimating torque versus speed characteristics of single and dual-stage electrically powered Rim Driven Fans which are intended for aircraft propulsion. The methodology is based on the well-known Euler equation which considers the change in angular momentum of the air as it passes through the fan rotors. A derivation of the useful and versatile Specific Work parameter (Y) is provided along with its important relationship with the fan Work Co-efficient (ψ) and an explanation of the relevance of the Fan Flow Co-efficient (∅) in determining the flow of air through the RDF device. An equation is derived which relates the fan torque to its rotational speed and a specimen calculation of a 200 mm inlet diameter RDF has been provided. Electrical performance graphs, generated with Motor-CAD LAB software, are included to illustrate an example of a suitably optimised RDF motor circuit. Finally, a thrust performance comparison is made between a theoretical dual-stage RDF and a commercially available fan-jet engine. It is demonstrated that the dual-stage RDF technology could offer a viable solution to power high-speed medium and large commercial transport aircraft, making them particularly suited to distributed thrust system architectures and blended-wing-body aircraft designs.

Item Type: Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)
Keywords: zero emission flight , rim driven fan , aircraft electrical propulsion , contra-rotating fans
Divisions: Applied Science, Computing and Engineering
Depositing User: Hayley Dennis
Date Deposited: 02 Nov 2022 13:35
Last Modified: 02 Nov 2022 13:35
URI: https://wrexham.repository.guildhe.ac.uk/id/eprint/17940

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