Conceptual design and optimization of a general aviation aircraft with fuel cells and hydrogen. (16th September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nicolay, Sebastian; Karpuk, Stanislav; Liu, Yaolong; Elham, Ali
• Is Part Of: International journal of hydrogen energy. Volume 46:Number 64(2021)
• Page Start: 32676
• Page End: 32694
• Publication Date: 2021-09-16
• Subjects: Aircraft design -- General aviation -- Fuel cell -- Hydrogen -- Optimization -- Emissions; Hydrogen as fuel -- Periodicals; Hydrogène (Combustible) -- Périodiques; Hydrogen as fuel; Periodicals; 665.81
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2021.07.127
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-3199

Abstract

Abstract: In this paper 1, an aircraft design from scratch and optimization is carried out to investigate the potentials of using liquid hydrogen and fuel cells in general aviation. The focus is set on finding an efficient aircraft configuration that considers all drive train-related components such as the hydrogen tank, fuel cells, and electric motors as well as passenger seats and cargo hold. The paper starts with the definition of the design requirements and specifications. Following, the baseline design of the aircraft in the Suave tool is presented. This includes making extensions to the Suave tool regarding the compatibility of fuel cells and hydrogen energy networks. Eventually, a multidisciplinary design optimization process of selected design variables together with the design constraints is carried out in Suave . Finally, the design is evaluated in terms of performance and emissions by drawing a comparison with conventional general aviation aircraft. Highlights: A clean sheet aircraft design using liquid hydrogen and fuel cells is performed. A tried and tested fuel cell model is added to the SUAVE aircraft design tool. Design optimization including both the geometry and propulsion system is carried out. Performance of small hydrogen aircraft is comparable to conventional aircraft.