Assessing network architectures for the more electric engine and aircraft

The More Electric concept for aircraft (MEA) and engines (MEE) uses electrical power for functions which previously required mechanical, pneumatic and hydraulic power. Consequently, modern jet-liners are generating ever-increasing electrical energy to supply this demand. This in turn has made their electrical systems bigger, heavier and more complex. As aviation-fuel costs increase, maximum capable power extraction from the engines and power system optimization are in ever-growing demand. In particular, interconnected or paralleled generation is thought to offer potential fuel savings and improve performance. This paper discusses the challenges associated with the implementation of interconnected generation. Efficiency and failure mode analysis of candidate networks is undertaken to evaluate the feasibility of interconnection at an engine or aircraft level. Conclusions are then drawn regarding the protection system requirements to realise interconnected generation schemes in future civil aircraft.