Posted on October 6, 2022 Henry Fayol Aerospace
As modern aircraft move away from mechanical systems powered by hydraulics and pneumatics, we are seeing a huge shift toward electrical power distribution systems due to the benefits they provide. Nonetheless, no system can be widely adopted without being proven safe, reliable, and durable. To better understand why electrical power distribution systems are being used on aircraft today, we will provide an overview of such systems and how they operate.
The main function of an electrical system is to generate, regulate, and distribute power throughout an aircraft. In fact, aircraft performance is directly linked with the reliability and functionality of electrical systems and subsystems. Generally, electrical systems in aircraft use both AC and DC power.
The AC power is usually a three-phase wye generator at 115VAC using 400Hz. The use of 400Hz power has been a standard for many years because it can be produced with smaller, more compact generators. While the use of higher frequencies is not suitable for long distance power transmission, it is a good choice for aerospace applications.
When utilized for power applications, the most popular DC voltage is 28VDC. However, changes in aircraft design and increased power consumption are requiring higher voltages.
In modern aircraft, distribution systems impact power system design, component configuration, wire routing, and wire selection. Luckily, electrical distribution systems today can route power around localized faults to maintain airworthiness. Serving as one example, the Boeing 787 runs power from the generator to the electrical equipment bay and distributes it from numerous locations within an aircraft.
In terms of advantages, aircraft with more complex electrical power systems decrease the total usage of heavy gauge power feeders, resulting in reduced weight. Additionally, there is also a decrease in total power distribution wiring and better electronic control of load throughout an aircraft.
With regard to disadvantages, complex electrical power systems are more vulnerable to electrical failure, short circuits, and loss of power because of the increase in the number of electrical circuits. More than that, higher frequencies are more sensitive to voltage drops.
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