AERTEC has been working for several years on the design and development of disruptive technological solutions for electrical power distribution systems.
The aviation sector is steadily evolving towards its commitment to achieve the zero emissions. A challenge to be achieved by 2040, but which is already being addressed by making progress on concepts such as the use of hydrogen or SAF fuels (Sustainable Aviation Fuel), with the aim of making aviation sustainable and efficient.
In order to present the current situation of the aeronautics industry in terms of sustainability, and to set out its short-term objectives, the Spanish Aerospace Platform organised a conference in which Aertec participated, along with other organisations in the sector such as Airbus and ITP Aero. Sara Bellido, aeronautical technical engineer and Business Development Manager for AERTEC's Aerospace and Defence Systems department, has highlighted the market trends in aircraft electrification, and the need to satisfy a much higher demand for electrical power. This gives rise to new challenges such as working with high voltage in direct current (HVDC High Voltage Direct Current) or the overheating, but in compliance with the demanding requirements of protection, insulation and cooling. “The trend in electrification is to advance as far as possible in voltage levels, in order to reduce the cross-section of the wiring and consequently the weight and resistive losses. To this end, we are mainly researching new solid-state transistors based on SiC and GaN devices,” says Sara Bellido.
AERTEC has been working for several years on the design and development of smart power distribution solutions and electric systems to replace hydraulic or pneumatic systems, through the application of disruptive and innovative technologies. “Working towards zero-emission aircraft is one of our priorities, incorporating the new technologies demanded by the industry. AERTEC is at the forefront of HVDC power management and distribution. - High Voltage Direct Current - being able to reach 0 to 540 VDC, and few companies have achieved that today,” Bellido explains.
AERTEC also applies the microcontroller technology, This allows digital control and monitoring of the sensors of all connected loads, visualisation of sensor data in real time and the possibility of acting on the relays in real time. “The electrification of aircraft and all their systems makes the power distribution system a totally critical system, so its monitoring is key to guaranteeing the protection of the loads,” says Sara Bellido.
For full electrification, it will be necessary to improve storage systems. Sara recalls that “research is also needed in technologies that substantially increase energy density and do not limit the range of the aircraft”.
