University of Bath and Druck set for Major Breakthrough in Hydrogen Powered Aircraft
The University of Bath has entered a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with Druck, a Crane Company business, to develop the world’s first flight-certified cryogenic hydrogen pressure sensor, helping pave the way for net-zero aviation.
Hydrogen is one of the most promising solutions to decarbonising air travel, with aviation currently accounting for over 8% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions. The flight-certified sensors will be designed to accurately measure pressures in liquid hydrogen (LH₂) storage and conveyance systems for hydrogen-powered aircraft at extreme cryogenic temperatures, far beyond current aerospace sensor limits. These measurements will be crucial for detecting leaks, ensuring safe operation, and enhancing system efficiency.
'If successful, this innovation will represent one of the most significant breakthroughs in harsh environment pressure measurement technology this century...'
Existing cryogenic hydrogen sensors are designed for industrial markets but lack flight certification. This KTP will give Druck, global leaders in the development of high accuracy, high quality pressure measurement technology for harsh environments, access to the University of Bath’s IAAPS institute, a unique facility equipped with propulsion, net-zero, and cryogenic infrastructure. This will enable advanced materials testing, prototype development, and full compliance with aerospace certification standards.
Professor Carl Sangan, the Professor of Sustainable Propulsion and Power, at the University of Bath, says: “This is an extremely exciting KTP, giving us the opportunity to support the aerospace industry in delivering net-zero travel. We look forward to collaborating with Druck to develop flight-qualified cryogenic hydrogen pressure sensors.”
With some 500,000 sensors already in operation across the aerospace sector, Druck has a proven track record helping control aircraft flight direction, fuel systems, hydraulics, cabin air pressure, engine oiling systems, and many other applications. The company is also participating in the FETCH collaboration to develop future aircraft hydrogen fuel control systems.
Druck’s President, Gordon Docherty, says: “If successful, this innovation will represent one of the most significant breakthroughs in harsh environment pressure measurement technology this century. We’re excited to work with the University of Bath and help make hydrogen-powered flight a reality.” The KTP will be funded by the University of Bath, Druck and Innovate UK. KTPs funded by Innovate UK aim to help businesses improve their competitiveness and productivity through the better use of knowledge, technology and skills within the UK knowledge base.
Read more information about the Druck aerospace portfolio here.