Analysis and Evaluation of Air Inlet Systems for Fuel Cell-Powered Electric Propulsion Systems for Regional Aircraft

Kurzfassung

The motivation for designing inlets in the context of future PEM fuel cell-powered aircraft propulsion is explained. A comprehensive overview of existing technological solutions for engines inlets is given. The advantages and limitations of these solutions, as well as their relevance for application on fuel cell-powered aero engines are analysed. Inlet system concepts are elaborated, analytically sized, CAD modelled and evaluated. These analyses highlight the high potential of scoop inlets and annular inlets, the challenges regarding particle separation and filtration, as well as the importance of the parameters pressure recovery, entry area and fuel cell operating temperature. Keywords: Scoop Inlet; Annular Inlet; PEM Fuel Cell-powered Propulsion; Hydrogen Aircraft; Sustainable Flight