Bristol engineering group to help create hydrogen engines
IAAPS in Emersons Green has partnered with global aviation firm GKN Aerospace
Last updated 6th Dec 2022
A research and development group based in Bristol has partnered with one of the world's leading aerospace companies, to help create hydrogen engines.
The Institute for Advanced Automotive Propulsion Systems or IAAPS for short, is based on the Bristol and Bath Science Park in Emersons Green and has announced a deal with global aerospace firm GKN, to help create the planes of the future.
In a statement IAAPS says it is "thrilled" with the news, which will see them help design hybrid hydrogen and electric systems and how to use liquid hydrogen as fuel.
Tony Reid is IAAPS Commercial Director.
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to support GKN Aerospace’s first hydrogen propulsion system for sub-regional aircraft and to play a key part in the delivery of the next generation of innovative, sustainable powertrain technologies," he said.
"These technologies will have far reaching impact in achieving net zero targets and reducing the global reliance on carbon, not just in aviation, but also across the wider transport industry.
"IAAPS has extensive experience in the research and development of clean propulsion systems, and with the addition of our new green H2 manufacturing and test facility we are ideally placed to carry out a vast array of exciting R&I projects within the aerospace sector.”
IAAPS, which is part funded by the University of Bath, will collaborate with GKN on their H2GEAR initiative, which aims to create a liquid hydrogen fuel system for "sub-regional aircraft" initially, which could then be scaled up to larger planes.
A statement from IAAPS says the collaboration makes "a significant contribution" to the UK government's "Hydrogen Strategy", which aims to establish a thriving low carbon hydrogen sector by 2030, driving the transition to net zero.
Max Brown is VP of Technology at GKN, which employs 15,000 people across 12 countries worldwide.
“Hydrogen technology is an essential component in the successful and rapid decarbonisation of the aviation industry and we are delighted to establish this strategic partnership with IAAPS.
"The collaboration will allow GKN to further develop our expertise in zero carbon propulsion technologies, using IAAPS’ state-of-the-art hydrogen and propulsion research capabilities, therefore fast-tracking the validation and delivery of clean, hydrogen-powered aircraft.”
IAAPS recently announced it is establishing green hydrogen manufacturing capability at its state-of-the-art, £70 million propulsion R&I facility at the Bristol & Bath Science Park, set to become operational in spring 2023.
It will be the first of its kind in the Southwest of England.