Parker Aerospace Joins HyFIVE Consortium for Zero-Emission Aviation

Parker Aerospace, a business segment of Parker Hannifin Corporation and a global leader in motion and control technologies, has announced its participation in the HyFIVE consortium. This collaborative effort, which includes industry and academic partners, aims to develop a world-leading liquid hydrogen fuel system supporting zero-emission aviation in the 2030s.

Alongside Parker Aerospace, the HyFIVE consortium comprises fellow industry partners Marshall and GKN Aerospace, as well as academic partners University of Manchester, University of Bath, and Cardiff University. The project is supported by the ATI Programme, a partnership between the UK’s Department for Business and Trade, the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI), and Innovate UK (UKRI), with initial funding of £17 million ($21.5 million) from industry, matched by £20 million ($25 million) from the UK Government.

A Path to Zero Emissions Flight

The objective of the HyFIVE consortium is to develop, test, and validate a modular and scalable cryogenic hydrogen fuel system architecture suitable for various aircraft types. This system will support both hydrogen electric propulsion and hydrogen combustion powertrains. The initiative will focus on technology development in five key areas: storage, conveyance, indication, fueling, and venting.

Collaboration Among Industry Leaders

Parker Aerospace, including Parker Meggitt, will contribute its advanced technology and expertise in sensing, thermal management, and fluid conveyance. Marshall will lead the HyFIVE efforts, drawing on its extensive experience in complex system design, integration, and certification. GKN Aerospace will leverage its expertise in advanced materials and hydrogen cryogenic system optimization.

Academic partners, including the University of Manchester, University of Bath, and Cardiff University, have been selected for their research capabilities and testing facilities in hydrogen-electric propulsion, cryogenic applications, power transmission, turbomachinery, and material development.

Technical Program Detailed

The HyFIVE consortium has outlined a comprehensive technical program spanning several years, from initial architecture development to ground testing and final design review for the integrated fuel system. By 2027, the consortium aims to develop and validate an integrated family of mature fuel system technologies, conduct ground demonstrations, and open flight demonstration paths with prospective customers.

Tracy Rice, vice president of technology and innovation for Parker Aerospace, expressed the company's commitment to sustainability and innovative technologies. Hydrogen fuel systems are deemed crucial in achieving zero emissions in aviation, and Parker Aerospace is dedicated to driving the development of solutions that support a more sustainable future.