The AeroPZT project aims to deliver the following results:
- A piezoelectric material capable of operation over the temperature range -40°C to 180°C.
- Encapsulation capable of enabling operation in a fuel wetted environment.
- A piezo element stack with metallization and encapsulation capable of producing the force and stroke required for a fuel staging valve in a SAGE 6 scale engine.
- An amplified stroke piezo actuator with characteristics suitable for the fuel staging requirements of SAGE 6.
- Data validating the cyclic and environmental performance of the piezo transducer element design in the fuel staging valve application.
If the piezoelectric solution is successfully implemented it will contribute in a highly significant way to attain the following impacts:
- Fuel valves with improved frequency response capable of performing the bumpless transfer function under feedback control.
- Improved engine surge margins during transient manoeuvres.
- Reduced or eliminated thrust perturbations due to fuelling transients.
- Improved safety for lean-burn staged combustion systems.
- Proven application of piezoelectric materials in a safety critical environment.
- Improved durability and reduced costs for fuel staging systems (due to the piezo actuator having fewer moving and wearing parts).