University of Nottingham and GKN Aerospace launch HPDrive
According to the partners, HPDrive will provide a dedicated route for the further development and industrialisation of cryogenic electrical machine technologies. It will focus on technologies intended for future zero-emission aerospace propulsion systems, including hydrogen-electric aircraft concepts. The partners state that the technologies address requirements for lightweight, high-efficiency electrical machines capable of operating at megawatt power levels.
The partners stated that HPDrive will focus initially on aerospace applications while also exploring opportunities in other sectors requiring high-power electrical machine technologies.
HPDrive combines expertise in cryogenic systems, advanced coil technologies, electrical machine design and aerospace engineering. The company is currently progressing its technology development roadmap and engaging with potential partners in aerospace and other sectors.
The University of Nottingham said the launch aligns with its activities in zero-carbon technologies, sustainable transport and advanced electrification. The venture also complements the university’s Hybrid Propulsion Systems facility, which is co-funded through the UK Research Partnership Investment Fund.
“The launch of HPDrive marks an exciting step forward in the journey towards zero-emission aerospace. The company has been established on strong foundations and brings together complementary expertise in cryogenic technologies, electrical machines and aerospace engineering,” said Professor Henner Wapenhans, CEO of HPDrive Technologies. “Through this new venture, we will further develop advanced cryogenic electrical machine technologies and accelerate their route towards future industrial and aerospace applications.”
GKN Aerospace said the company will build on technologies developed through the H2GEAR programme.
“HPDrive creates a dedicated route to build on the technologies, expertise and capability developed through H2GEAR and take advanced cryogenic electrical machines closer to future industrial and aerospace applications,” said Max Brown, Vice President Technology at GKN Aerospace. “Through this venture with the University of Nottingham, we are supporting the continued development of a strategically important UK capability and helping to advance the technologies required for the longer-term transition towards zero-emission flight.”
George Rice, Director of Knowledge Exchange and Business Engagement at the University of Nottingham, said: “It has been an extremely rewarding process to co-create HPDrive with GKN Aerospace to facilitate the development of a nationally important technology platform. The University and GKN Aerospace will continue to support the company as it progresses towards commercialisation.”
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