ESPOSA · Efficient Systems and Propulsion for Small Aircraft

The ESPOSA project will develop and integrate novel design and manufacture technologies for a range of small gas turbine engines up to approx. 1000 kW to provide aircraft manufacturers with better choice of modern propulsion units. It will also deal with engine related systems which contribute to the overall propulsion unit efficiency, safety and pilot workload reduction. Through the newly developed design tools and methodologies for the engine/aircraft integration the project will also contribute to the improved readiness for new turbine engines installation into aircraft. New technologies and knowledge gained through the ESPOSA project will provide European general aviation industry with substantially improved ability to develop and use affordable and environmentally acceptable propulsion units and reliable aircraft systems minimizing operating costs, while increasing the level of safety. The new engine systems and engine technologies gained from ESPOSA should deliver 10-14% reduction in direct operating costs (DOC) and reduce significantly the pilot workload. The ESPOSA project is oriented on turbine engine technologies tailored for a small aircraft up to 19 seats (under CS-23/FAR23) operated on the scheduled and non-scheduled flights. The research work comprises performance improvements of key engine components, their improved manufacture in terms of costs and quality. New engine component technologies will be backed by novel modern electronic engine control based on COTS, pioneering the engine health monitoring for small engines and providing new more electric solutions for fuel and propeller control systems. Project activities will include extensive validation on the test rigs. The most appropriate technologies according to value/cost benefit will be selected and integrated into functional complexes and further evaluated on the engine test beds. The functionality of certain project outcomes will also be demonstrated and validated in-flight conditions.