Cranfield University is part of a research collaboration led by Moog Aircraft to develop cutting-edge technologies for the future of liquid hydrogen gas turbine fuel systems.
The project, which has a focus on large commercial aircraft, is funded by a grant from the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI).
In addition to Cranfield University and Moog Aircraft, the project includes the University of Bath, Druck, Curtiss-Wright Corporation’s Sensors Division, and Carter Manufacturing.
The project will focus on the large commercial aircraft of the future and has the technical support of engine manufacturer GE Aerospace. Researchers will create and demonstrate the use of a system to control fuel in hydrogen-powered airplane engines.
Cranfield University will support the research with its expertise in the modelling, performance assessment and dynamic behaviour of the hydrogen fuel system.
Dr Theoklis Nikolaidis, Reader in Gas Turbine Performance and Numerical Simulation at Cranfield University, said: "We are proud to be a part of this groundbreaking collaboration, driving innovation in the development of liquid hydrogen gas turbine fuel systems for large commercial aircraft. This initiative represents a significant step forward in sustainable aviation.”
Mark Lawton, General Manager of Moog Aircraft, said: “We are delighted to have pulled together such a strong group of companies to collaborate with on this important sustainable aviation initiative. Moog have a great history of solving difficult technical challenges and our experience with engine fuel control valves and hydrogen should put us in a good position to develop the products required by a new generation of aircraft engines.”
Activities will culminate with the testing of the hydrogen fuel system in early 2026.
The project is part of the FETCH initiative (Future Engine Technology for the Control of Hydrogen), an initiative focused on developing hydrogen fuel controls for aircraft jet engines from existing low-TRL technologies.
It is funded by the ATI Programme, a joint Government and industry investment to maintain and grow the UK’s competitive position in civil aerospace design and manufacture, and also by Innovate UK. The programme is delivered by ATI, Innovate UK, and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT).
