Airbus A380 Image: Airbus
aeronautics
Technology
/ Europe
Sustainability
Airbus will use the A380 for hydrogen-powered engines
By: Rafael Ramos
On: 2/22/2022
Airbus A380
Image: Airbus
During an event today, 22, Airbus announced its partnership with CFM international to supply hydrogen powered engines. For testing purposes, the hydrogen-powered flight is expected to be carried out by the A380 to accelerate the entry into service of an aircraft with zero net emissions by 2035.
The large A380-800 will be equipped with liquid hydrogen tanks inside. The tanks must be capable of holding the fuel at temperatures of -250 °C and high pressures. Hydrogen, being very volatile, could cause a major accident if there was a leak.
"This is the most significant step by Airbus to usher in a new era of hydrogen-powered flight since the unveiling of our ZEROe concepts. (...) This partnership sends a clear message that our industry is committed to making zero emissions”, says Airbus technical director Sabine Klauke.
CFM will be responsible for modifying the engine systems on GE Passport turbofan engines, such as the fuel, combustion and control systems. The engine will be mounted along the rear fuselage in order to monitor emissions.
Despite this, Airbus will still define the propulsion system requirements, in addition to overseeing the flight tests, which are expected to be carried out later this decade. Before flight tests, extensive ground tests must take place.
“The A380 MSN1 is an excellent flight laboratory platform for new hydrogen technologies. It is a secure and reliable platform that is highly versatile for testing a wide range of zero-emission technologies. In addition, the platform can comfortably accommodate the large flight test instrumentation that will be required to analyze the performance of hydrogen in the hydrogen propulsion system,” said Mathias Andriamisaina, ZEROe project leader.
As an advantage, burning the fuel generates only water as a by-product. Also, it can be more practical as it is faster than electric planes to be “refueled”.
"Hydrogen combustion capability is one of the fundamental technologies that we are developing and maturing. (...) We really have the dream team in place to successfully demonstrate a hydrogen propulsion system", according to CFM President and CEO , Gaël Meheust.
Image: Airbus
Rafael Ramos
Aviation enthusiast from an early age, he had his first contacts with the area developing that good old habit of spending dozens of hours in front of the screens of Micrsoft Flight Simulator and other simulators. With a solid background in various technological areas, including engineering and chemistry, Rafael has rejoined aviation as editor and author of articles and materials on our portal, providing invaluable help to the dynamics and expansion of the website and the aeronautical community, bringing us the news and updates so indispensable for us to remain current in our area of operation.
   
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