Why Choose Liquid Cooling for Commercial Aircraft?
In the commercial aircraft industry, safety reigns supreme. Every component selected must meet rigorous standards to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew. Among these vital components, the cooling systems play a central role, safeguarding critical equipment from overheating potential failures. As aircraft evolve to become more technologically advanced, the importance of efficient, reliable cooling solutions has never been greater.
When space and weight are at a premium, liquid cooling is often the optimal solution. While air cooling systems, such as those provided by industry leaders like AMETEK Rotron, offer dependable solutions for certain aerospace applications, the limitations of space often necessitate a more compact and efficient approach. Liquid cooling can rapidly dissipate heat from densely packed avionics, ensuring these systems operate within their optimal temperature ranges. This not only maintains their functionality but also extends the lifespan of the components, contributing to the overall reliability and safety of the aircraft.
As a trusted provider of meticulously engineered cooling solutions, PDT provides liquid cooling systems for commercial aircraft as well as military and space applications. PDT's liquid cooling solutions can be found aboard the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
" Liquid cooling can rapidly dissipate heat from densely packed avionics, ensuring these systems operate within their optimal temperature ranges."
For the Boeing 787 Dreamliner's liquid cooling system, PDT designed and developed four distinct fluid reservoirs. These reservoirs are integral to three separate cooling loops: Power Electronics Cooling, Integrated Cooling, and Forward Cargo Air Conditioning. They operate on a 'bootstrap' principle, using a pressure-multiplying method. This method harnesses high-pressure fluid from the circulation pump to boost the pump's inlet pressure, optimizing the cooling system's efficiency.
Unlike traditional accumulators that maintain fluid pressure even when pumps are off, PDT's design allows system pressure to drop to zero when the pump is off, enhancing the system's reliability. This included rigorous approval processes, ensuring every aspect of the design and production met strict quality and reliability standards.
As aircraft technology advances, the demand for more sophisticated cooling solutions will only grow. Liquid cooling systems are poised to play a crucial role in the development of next-generation aircraft. Innovations in thermal management will likely focus on improving efficiency, reducing weight, enhancing safety, performance, and environmental sustainability.
If you’re interested in learning more about PDT’s liquid cooling solutions, get in touch with us today.