A 25% improvement in efficiency compared with traditional fuel pumps is one of the headline claims for Eaton Corporation’s new Variable Displacement Ring Pump (VDRP).
“This unique technology offers a level of thermal efficiency and controllability that guarantees significant fuel savings and lower lifetime costs,” says Eaton marketing communications manager Peter Parsons.
The Lockheed Martin F-35 combat aircraft is one of the earliest applications for the new pump, but it is equally applicable to civil air transport. US-based airframe system supplier Eaton estimates that VDRP would save the average Boeing 737 operator $37,000 a year in fuel costs and more than $1 million over the life of the aircraft.
The pump also produces a temperature reduction of up to 100°F (38°F) in the fuel system, with consequent benefits to serviceability, and draws as much as 15hp less power. It further eases loads on the fuel system by producing only those flows and pressures being demanded at a given time.
VDRP features a simple actuation system that allows it to respond more precisely to fuel system flow demands. The actuation system’s low force levels also ensure a more rapid response and more stable overall operation.
On the eve of the show Eaton chalked up a major win in the corporate aviation sector in the form of a contract to supply the fuel system for Cessna’s new Citation Columbus large-cabin business jet. The company expects the award to be worth $100 million over 20 years.
Eton will design, develop and manufacture the complete system, including the electric boost pumps, ejector pumps, transfer flow-control valves, the refuel/defuel subsystem and the quantity measurement system.
“This award strengthens our relationship with Cessna and represents a new market segment win for our fuel systems business,” says Parsons. “It also demonstrates the synergy and strengths of Argo-Tech and Cobham’s Fuel and Air Division, which we acquired in the last couple of years.”
As well as fuel systems, Eaton also supplies electric motors, door actuators, nosewheel steering systems, cockpit controls and displays, power and load management systems, pressure sensors, seals and fluid health monitoring products.
Source: Flight International