Superconducting Aviation Motors Cooled by Helium

In the pursuit of reducing carbon emissions in aviation, a project funded by the European Union, known as ASuMED, is developing fully superconducting motors with a remarkable power-to-weight ratio of 20kW/kg and efficiency >99%, cooled by liquid helium. In comparison, the power-to-weight ratio of regular jet engines ranges between 4-6 kW/kg (higher the ratio, greater the power per unit weight). These superconducting motors have the potential to revolutionise aviation by significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions. They align with the Flightpath 2050 objectives and are poised to transform the future of aviation and potentially other electric vehicles and power generation methods. Testing of a 1 MW superconducting motor is set to take place in early 2024, marking a significant milestone in the project's progress.

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