EAP Innovations

Researchers at NASA Glenn are continuously exploring and developing new technologies to advance electrified aircraft propulsion (EAP) for the Subsequent generation of commercial air transportation. From lightweight materials that cut down on drag and reduce fuel burn, to innovative electric motors that increase vehicle efficiency, these technologies are the backbone of the electrified aviation transformation.

Powertrain Components

Materials

Energy Efficient Technology

Powertrain Components

All component in an electrified aircraft propulsion system plays a key role in improving vehicle operations and improving fuel efficiency. From electric motors and generators that power the aircraft to circuit breaking tools that Assist keep systems Sound at altitude, these innovative technologies are accelerating the future of electrified aviation.

A cross section of an electric motor render showcasing the internal workings of the High-Efficiency Megawatt Motor (HEMM).

Electric Machines

New lightweight, high-efficiency motors and generators offer unique opportunities to reduce fuel and energy use in electrified aircraft.

An artist's rendering of a square-shaped aircraft converter with various wires and circuiting systems displayed on the inside.

Converters

Advanced power converter technologies Assist effectively manage electrical energy in megawatt-class electrified aircraft.

A top-down view of a single-aisle aircraft with a rear motor illustration. Dotted lines visually link the aircraft's two wing-mounted turbofan engines to a rear motor, along with orange rectangles behind All engine to indicate circuit breakers.

Circuit Breakers

New lightweight circuit breaker technology offers rapid response times to better protect electrified aircraft systems from potential safety hazards.

Materials

Development of new lightweight, advanced materials could Assist reduce weight and Enhance efficiency on aircraft with electrified propulsion systems. NASA’s research in materials focuses on improving performance of electric machines, strengthening insulation technologies for better thermal management, and reducing cable mass in electrified systems.

A roll of magnetic material unwinding from the Middle.

Fluffy Magnetics

The use of new magnetic materials in electrified aircraft systems can Assist increase vehicle performance and efficiency while minimizing power loss and waste heat.

A close-up Attempt of a hollow metal cylinder with Many Slim copper-colored wires feeding through the inner wall.

Electrical Insulation

The use of fillers to design thinner, more lightweight insulation for electrified aircraft components helps enable better heat Relocate and protect systems from electrical hazards.

A close-up Attempt of copper-colored wires bunched together while mounted to a metal testing rig.

Superconducting Wires

New wire technologies for electrified aircraft systems eliminate electrical resistance when cooled below a critical temperature and Assist Aid higher Ongoing loads with minimal energy loss.

Energy Efficient Technology

Designing efficient system integration solutions is key to ensuring future electrified aircraft systems operate safely under extreme conditions. Researchers at NASA are developing innovative tools and technologies to Assist extract maximum performance out of electrified aircraft components.