Characterised by two sets of blades with no external engine cowling, open rotor architectures are designed to efficiently increase propulsion, thereby reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Reducing fuel burn rates by 20 % will be a gamechanger for the industry.

 

The EU-funded ROTATOR project sought to advance open rotor engine technology, through replacing hydraulics with an electromechanical magnetic control system, in-line with the push for greater electrification of aircraft.

 

In open rotor engines, constant and precise adjustment of blade angle is important in maximising fuel savings. The angle of the blades has conventionally been controlled using hydraulic systems. Such systems however require extensive maintenance to prevent hydraulic fluid leakage and can be fraught with other technical problems.

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The work is supported by CleanSky2 Joint Undertaking JTI-CS2-2019-CfP10-LPA-01-77: Advanced Pitch Control Mechanism TRL4 Demonstration. The JU receives support from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme and the Clean Sky 2 JU members other than the Union. The views and results communicated in this paper reflect only the author's view. The EU Joint Undertaking is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information it contains.

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