TU Delft Partners with Aerospace Giants for Sustainable Aviation Research
Delft, Monday, 23 September 2024.
TU Delft, Collins Aerospace, and Pratt & Whitney have signed a five-year master research agreement to collaborate on sustainable aviation technologies. The partnership will focus on advanced materials, hydrogen propulsion, and innovative manufacturing methods to drive the industry towards climate-neutral aviation by 2050.
Strategic Objectives
The master research agreement (MRA) signed on 16 September 2024, marks a significant milestone for TU Delft and its partners, Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney. The collaborative effort aims to address critical challenges in aviation by focusing on advanced materials, hydrogen propulsion, and innovative manufacturing methods. This partnership underscores the commitment of all parties involved to drive the industry towards climate-neutral aviation by 2050.
Initial Projects
Among the first projects under this agreement is the development of a high-speed intelligent inspection system. This system is designed to enhance manufacturing processes for lightweight and recyclable aircraft materials. Another key project involves developing novel engine configurations that utilize thermal energy recovery technologies. These configurations aim to improve fuel efficiency and significantly reduce CO2 emissions, contributing to more sustainable aviation practices.
The Role of TU Delft
TU Delft, located in Delft, Netherlands, is renowned for its comprehensive and highly ranked academic and innovation ecosystems in sustainable aviation. The university’s faculty of Aerospace Engineering, led by Professor Henri Werij, plays a pivotal role in this collaboration. Professor Werij emphasized the importance of working with leading aerospace companies to achieve the goal of climate-neutral aviation by 2050. The university’s involvement in projects like Clean Aviation and COCOLIH2T for liquid hydrogen storage technologies further showcases its dedication to sustainable aviation research.
Support from Industry Leaders
Michael Winter, Chief Science Officer at RTX, the parent company of Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney, highlighted the significance of collaboration between industry engineers and university research institutions. According to Winter, this partnership not only fosters the development of emerging technologies but also supports the next generation of talent that will drive the industry forward. The MRA is the first of its kind between RTX and a European university institution, reflecting the strategic importance of this collaboration.
Long-term Vision
The agreement builds on a long-standing relationship between TU Delft and its industry partners. Over the next five years, Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney will initiate multiple research projects involving TU Delft’s graduate research facilities, students, and staff. These projects are expected to yield innovations that will significantly impact the aviation industry. The collaboration also includes sponsorship of TU Delft’s aerospace student association VSV Leonardo da Vinci and the Aerospace Innovation Hub, providing valuable internship opportunities and fostering a practical learning environment.
A Sustainable Future
With more than 26,000 Bachelor and Master students and close to 8,000 staff, TU Delft is well-equipped to contribute to the development of sustainable aviation technologies. The university’s comprehensive approach to minimizing the climate impact of the entire aviation system includes research on sustainable production, maintenance, and circular lifecycle of aircraft. The partnership with Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney is a crucial step towards achieving the shared vision of climate-neutral aviation by 2050.