High temperature electro-magnetic actuators (HTEMA)

ABSTRACT: Some military aircraft engines utilize fuel as the working fluid in engine nozzle actuation systems. RCT proposes a prototype design, build and test effort resulting in a high temperature, high reliability class of an electromagnetic actuator with minimal/no heat load on aircraft cooling systems. Size and weight are consistent with aircraft engine limits and are applicable to manned and unmanned vehicles. The baseline concept design will meet performance constraints and appropriate military specifications. Phase I Actuator performance requirements identified with the Air Force and RCT partner(s) and design trades consistent with aircraft engine applications, form the basis for Phase II design, build and test. At the end of Phase II, the High Temperature Electromagnetic Actuator (HTEMA) will be validated by testing at RCT and OEMs. Success will lead to a Phase III program for HTEMA hardware integration into Convergent Nozzle Actuation System (CNAS) on an engine test stand, and eventually block upgrades to the engine. Key technical aspects that are being traded-off include high temperature environment, actuator force, power, weight, size, efficiency, speed, stroke, and mechanical robustness (margin). System/component reliability, life cycle cost, failure modes and effects, and maintenance needs are critical to the program and will be evaluated. BENEFIT: Commercial opportunities include more reliable electromagnetic actuators which can be used in down hole drills, high temperature industrial actuators, nuclear fission and fusion reactor actuators and geothermal power conversion systems.