GKN Aerospace and Embraer plan to collaborate in research and development work on possible hydrogen propulsion systems for aircraft, the companies said Wednesday at the Paris Airshow, adding they will explore the possibility of producing a hydrogen flight demonstrator.
In 2021, Embraer launched its Energia future aircraft concept program and, after initially considering some 20 concepts the Brazilian airframer in December, narrowed the scope of the work to four possible aircraft, including one using direct hydrogen combustion. GKN already participates in multiple hydrogen propulsion projects in Europe, including the H2Gear and H2Jet programs, which respectively concentrate on hydrogen-electric fuel cell-based powertrains and direct combustion of liquid hydrogen fuel in turboprop and turbofan engines.
“Hydrogen-powered aviation represents a tangible and compelling solution for achieving zero-emissions flight,” said GKN Aerospace chief technology officer Russ Dunn. “Advancing this pioneering technology to the next level necessitates unparalleled collaboration within the industry, as exemplified by our partnership with Embraer as well as combining the expertise of aerospace ecosystems in our countries and support governments.”
GKN Opens Additive Manufacturing Cell
Meanwhile, GKN has commissioned what the company says is the world’s largest known laser-directed energy deposition additive manufacturing cell as part of its new Global Technology Center in Texas. The new Cell 3 facility will produce titanium additive parts for defense and civil applications in a more sustainable and efficient way, with fewer waste materials through the laser metal deposition with wire process.
Also this week, GKN said it has delivered the first set of wheels and brake assemblies for the F-35 Lightning II fighter as part of a contract won by the group’s Fokker subsidiary from the Joint Program Office to support the Europe-based F-35 fleet.