This paper describes the experimental rig test result of the electric motor-driven fuel pump system for the MEE (More Electric Engine). The MEE is an aircraft engine system concept, which replaces conventional mechanical/hydraulic driven components with electric motor-driven components. Various MEE approaches have been studied since the early 2000s and one of its key concepts is an electric motor-driven fuel pump [1–4]. The authors commenced a feasibility study of the electric motor-driven gear pump system for what was assumed to be a small-sized turbofan engine. The concept study and system design were conducted, whereupon technical issues for the electric fuel pump system, which both supplies and meters fuel via the motor speed control, were clarified [5, 6]. Since one of the key issues is fuel-metering accuracy, the electric fuel system, including a flow feedback closed-loop control, was designed to ensure accurate fuel-flow metering for aircraft engine applications.
To verify the rig system, an experimental model of the electric fuel pump system is assumed for a small-sized turbofan engine. The hardware of the motor-driven fuel pump and flow measurement mechanism, including an FPV (Fuel-Pressurizing Valve) and orifice, were designed, manufactured and fabricated and a differential pressure sensor for flow feedback was selected. Other equipment was also prepared, including a motor controller, power source and measurement devices, and the entire rig set-up was constructed.
A bench test using the rig test set-up was conducted to verify the fuel-metering accuracy, response and system stability. Data, including the static performance and frequency response, were obtained for the electric motor, motor-driven fuel pump and entire fuel system respectively. The rig test results indicate the feasibility of the system, which will provide an accurate engine fuel flow (Wf) measurement and frequency response required for actual engine operation, via an electric motor speed control and fuel-flow feedback system, as proposed in the MEE electric fuel system.
CORROSION ON ELECTRIC FUEL PUMP HOUSING AT DURABILITY TEST IN TEST BENCH