This project conducted a feasibility study for fuel cell auxiliary power units (APUs). The study considered
- weight, size, and power generation,
- certification issues
- existing background work
and how each may apply to fuel cell APUs for transport aircraft.
The study assessed the potential for increased reliability, efficiency, and economy with adoption of fuel cell technology and accelerated entry of this technology into the aircraft industry.
Project research
- Compared potential fuel cell APUs to traditional aircraft power generators and how each addresses aircraft requirements.
- Identified fuel cell concepts having the greatest potential for near term application in transport category aircraft.
- Identified, resolved and documented issues of safety, integration, servicing, and FAA certification.
- Designed and fabricated a fuel cell test article, developed test plans and validated test methods.
- Tested the fuel cell to obtain electrical power quality under selected environments.
- Compared test results and against baseline battery systems.
- Assessed the overall future of fuel cells in the aviation industry.
