It supports the on-going research to evaluate the potential use and environmental benefits of fuel cell technology and zero emissions power generation in civil aviation.
The fuel cell technology developed by Michelin for Airbus is the result of extensive research conducted by Michelin involving prospective studies of future road vehicles.
During the test, the hydrogen and oxygen based fuel cell system generated up to 20 kW of electrical power. The emission free fuel cell system generates water as a ”waste“ product. The fuel cell system powered the aircraft`s electric motor coupled to the pump of the back-up hydraulic circuit. This circuit operates many systems, including the aircraft`s ailerons.
The fuel cell`s robustness was confirmed when undergoing very powerful accelerations during turns and zero gravity aircraft manoeuvres.
This achievement will enable Airbus, Michelin and their partners to further explore applications for fuel cell technology for replacing other aircraft systems such as the emergency power systems and the Auxiliary Power Unit (APU). This would significantly reduce the noise and emission levels in and around airports.
