The major challenges confronting the propulsion community for supersonic transport applications are identified. Both past progress and future opportunities are discussed in relation to perceived technology shortfalls for an economically successful SST that satisfies environmental constraint. A very large improvement in propulsion system efficiency is needed both at supersonic cruise and subsonic cruise conditions. Toward this end, several advanced engine concepts are being considered that promise up to 25 pct. better efficiency than the Concorde engine. The quest for high productivity through higher speed is also thwarted by the lack of a conventional, low priced fuel that is thermally stable at the higher temperatures associated with faster flight. Extending Jet A type fuel to higher temperatures and the adoption of liquid natural gas or methane are two possibilities requiring further study. Airport noise remains a tough challenge because previously researched concepts fall short of achieving FAR 36 Stage III noise levels. Innovative solutions may be necessary to reach acceptably low noise.
Propulsion Challenges and Opportunities for High-Speed Transport Aircraft
1990
16 pages
Report
No indication
English
Aircraft , Jet & Gas Turbine Engines , Engine design , Supersonic inlets , Supersonic transports , Aircraft noise , Exhaust emission , Fuel consumption , Concorde aircraft , Exhaust nozzles , Jet engine fuels , Liquefied natural gas , Methane , Noise intensity , Propulsive efficiency , System effectiveness , Thermal stability
Aircraft hybrid-electric propulsion: development trends, challenges and opportunities
DOAJ | 2024
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