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Aviation History
2004
2004-06 - 0024.PDF
PROPULSION & SYSTEMS Achievement: Variable frequency electric power for civil jet aircraft APU generator systems test rig to check electrical equipment compatibility with VF (for Bombardier Global Express) Over the last decade Goodrich has laid claim to leading the development of variable- frequency (VF) electrical power, which it says promises to bring about a revolution in aircraft electrical systems. Now, following the company's successful completion of a VF system for the Bombardier Global Express and receipt of a contract for VF in the Airbus A380, this technology is emerging as a front-runner in the race to provide electrical power aboard the next generation of civil aircraft. VF is intended to replace the traditional constant-frequency systems currently flying on most civil jets. VF systems are characterised by much lower weight, greatly improved reliability, and the ability to generate efficiently the higher levels of power demanded by the More Electric Aircraft concept. More Electric Aircraft envisages the replacement with compact electric actuators of the heavy, maintenance-intensive hydraulic, pneumatic and mechanical systems used for flight control and other airframe functions. Innovations by Goodrich Power Systems in electromagnetic design and generator control technologies now permit VF systems to deliver power comparable in quality across the whole frequency range to that produced by traditional Constant Frequency solutions. One of the clearest signs of progress in this field was the delivery in the past year of very-high-power VF generators for development work on A380 airframe and engine test rigs. The generators have performed well up to specification, with the result that Goodrich and A380 partner Thales have won the distinction of being the first electrical system suppliers on the programme to pass Airbus lab acceptance. Over the past 12 months Goodrich has also played a leading role in the tech nology demonstration programme for Boeing 7E7 electrical power. Boeing sees the ability to produce large amounts of electrical power as one of the enabling technologies for the programme. Goodrich's considers that its VF innovations provide a solution. 22
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