The ZeroAvia compressor is a crucial component for delivering the high flow of oxygen for the chemical reactions within hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity for jet propulsion systems.
ZeroAvia, a leader in hydrogen-electric aviation, has unveiled a groundbreaking achievement in aviation propulsion technology—a high-performance compressor designed specifically for fuel cell-based aviation systems. This pioneering compressor is a crucial component for delivering the high flow of oxygen required for the chemical reactions within hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity for aircraft propulsion systems. The innovative design addresses the challenge of maintaining efficient and powerful oxygen delivery at higher altitudes while minimizing weight and maximizing performance.
This world-first compressor is a result of ZeroAvia’s relentless pursuit of true zero-emission flight through hydrogen-electric powertrains. The company’s breakthrough technology allows the compressor to be integrated into their ZA600 hydrogen-electric powertrain for aircraft seating 9-19 passengers, which is slated to enter service by 2025, and their ZA2000 powertrain for larger aircraft seating 40-80 passengers, with a target entry-in-service of 2027.
Rudolf Coertze, CTO Hydrogen, ZeroAvia said, “The compressor technology we have designed is critical in delivering optimal performance in the final, certified ZA600 engine technology. Our compressor is an important component of our fuel cell power generation systems, and a world-leading technology advancement for clean aviation in its own right. This really is a major achievement for our turbomachinery engineers and another marquee moment for the company at large.”
Initial testing of the ZeroAvia compressor has demonstrated its stability and performance across a wide range of power levels and operating conditions. With the capacity to support fuel cell systems of up to 900 kW, the compressor significantly outperforms existing fuel cell compressors while maintaining superior power density. Notably, ZeroAvia’s innovative compressor operates with zero latency, using power from the electric propulsion system, thus eliminating the need for additional components like inverters and electric motors.
This compressor technology not only contributes to the optimization of ZeroAvia’s powertrains, but it also offers weight efficiency, stability, and high performance, making it an ideal solution for high-power and high-altitude aviation applications. The company’s commitment to environmental standards and aerospace requirements is evident, and plans for certification testing are scheduled for the coming year.
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ZeroAvia’s hydrogen-electric engines utilize hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity, which powers electric motors that drive the aircraft’s propellers. The result is a propulsion system that emits only water vapor, contributing to zero-emission flight and reduced environmental impact. The company has already secured pre-order agreements for nearly 2,000 engines from prominent airlines, showcasing the industry’s growing interest in sustainable aviation solutions. This latest breakthrough in compressor technology further solidifies ZeroAvia’s position as a trailblazer in the future of aviation.
