Electrifying the aviation sector—introducing an innovative prototype

The Institute is a prestigious partner in the aviation sector. Collaboration with us can propel aviation technology, and foster sustainable air transport.

Comprising a diverse and committed team of scientists and engineers, the Institute aims to apply cutting-edge research findings and advanced engineering to innovative technologies. An example of this work is the homopolar superconducting electric motor that has been designed, built and tested at the Institute.

Funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) Endeavour Programme, the prototype superconducting electric motor/generator provides evidence that Paihau–Robinson Research Institute has a workable solution to revolutionise the aviation industry. Developed in association with key New Zealand companies such as HTS-110 Ltd, Llama Engineering, and Fabrum, this prototype benefits from their expertise in superconducting magnet systems, precision engineering, and metal fabrication, respectively. Their collaboration also helps advance the Institute's research and development efforts in various other projects.

The science

The motor is a 22-kW partially superconducting machine featuring a REBCO (Rare-Earth Barium Copper Oxide) electromagnetic field coil. It can reach maximum operating speeds of 30,000 RPM, facilitated by a six-pole rotor. Unlike other designs, the high-current, lightweight REBCO field coil can magnetise a solid steel rotor without the need for rotating connections or fragile permanent magnets.

The primary application for this technology is onboard electric power generation for future large hybrid-electric aircraft. Batteries are not suitable due to their weight, so electricity must be generated 'on-the-fly'. The machine's high operating speed enables direct drive from a gas turbine engine, eliminating the need for intricate gearboxes.

The technology brings several new advancements to the table, including compact, lightweight power supplies and protective mechanisms for superconducting magnets and type-II superconductor maglev bearings.

The prototype demonstrates that High-Temperature Superconductivity (HTS) technology from the Institute is sturdy and ready for commercial applications.

The prototype, with a rated power equivalent to its horsepower, features a 22-kW model. This smaller-scale demonstrator is a precursor to a more ambitious design targeting 2–3 MW, intended to power larger aircraft. Its rated speed is 25,000 RPM, indicating the nominal operating speed. In tests, the machine has achieved up to 18,000 RPM, establishing a world record for superconducting machines. Regarding power density, a full-scale version designed for 2MW output would boast a remarkable 5.4 kW per kilogram. One of its most notable features is its efficiency, rated at 99.1%. This level of efficiency is exceptionally high, especially compared to internal combustion engines, which generally have a maximum efficiency ranging between 20% and 40%, thus making this machine extraordinarily efficient in converting nearly all input energy into useful work.

The prototype's test results are a testament to its revolutionary nature. It's not just about immense power; it's also about delivering that power with unparalleled efficiency in a lightweight, compact form with significant impact on reducing the aviation caussed pollution.

The test results give undeniable evidence of the power and importance of this breakthrough. Our team has been presenting the results on major international forums. This prototype is a milestone.

Impact and potential

In a hybrid-electric aircraft, the turbine engine operates more efficiently, translating to a higher return on investment. By using less fuel for greater power output, long-term savings are realised.

This pioneering technology has the potential to become a linchpin in Aotearoa New Zealand's technology exports. It positions the country at the forefront of hybrid electric aviation technology, opening doors for international patents, partnerships, and a surge in high-tech jobs.

The aviation sector is known for contributing a significant portion of the harmful emissions—approximately 6.7%—of transport-related greenhouse gas emissions globally. Given the increasing number of flights, there's an urgent need for effective, fast, and reliable technologies to address these emissions.

The efficiency of the Paihau–Robinson Research Institute's technology offers a considerable reduction in fuel consumption and, consequently, emissions.

This machine's high efficiency and compact design could make it an excellent candidate for public transport solutions that prioritise energy efficiency and space economy. This opens up another avenue for its application, contributing to a more sustainable future.

By taking these steps, New Zealand could reduce fossil fuel imports and increase clean energy exports, providing a significant boost to GDP.

A global leap forward, originating from New Zealand

The high-speed superconducting motor/generator prototype is a global statement affirming New Zealand's capacity to make meaningful contributions to both technology and sustainable living. Air New Zealand is already committed trialling electric aeroplanes on domestic routes by 2026.

As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, more nations will follow New Zealand's lead in pioneering sustainable aviation solutions at Paihau–Robinson Research Institute as the leading player in superconductivity research and applications.