Honeywell and Reaction Engines have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on the development of thermal management technologies as a critical enabler to reduce aircraft emissions, regardless of the fuel type used in the aircraft.

The two companies will adapt the microtube heat exchanger technology from Reaction Engines and apply it across a broad range of Honeywell systems for sustainable aviation thermal management solutions.

Reaction Engines develops heat exchange technology that can reduce weight by more than 30%, which translates to less fuel consumption and longer range or higher capacity of aircraft. 

The potential for this technology is wide-ranging across all segments of the aerospace industry. Heat exchangers are important components of many of the aircraft mechanical systems that Honeywell manufactures.

Today, Honeywell heat exchangers are being used on various platforms, from extremely compact spacecrafts to large, wide-body airliners. They are critical in assisting aerospace heating and cooling and have a direct impact on aircraft fuel efficiency.

Future generations of aircraft powered by sustainable fuels will require much more efficient and lightweight thermal management than what is available today. Advancements of this technology will help aircraft manufacturers deliver on sustainability commitments and meet government sustainability regulations while increasing operational efficiencies. 

“Our transformative thermal management technology provides a step change in performance, efficiency and sustainability and is a genuine enabler of zero-emissions aerospace. Decarbonising the aerospace industry is one of the most significant challenges facing humankind today, and we are committed to creating solutions that promote sustainability and clean aviation. We are delighted to collaborate with Honeywell on ground-breaking projects that will accelerate the road map to net-zero aviation,” said Tom Burvill, director, applied technologies, Reaction Engines.

“At Honeywell, we are proud to work on projects that have the potential to improve the future of aviation,” said Michelle Drage, vice president, Air and Thermal Systems, Honeywell Aerospace. “Building on our relationship with Reaction Engines provides an exciting opportunity to apply our combined expertise on new thermal management and heat exchange technology to provide increased efficiency for our customers and to make an impact on global sustainability goals.”

Thermal management is instrumental to the development of aircraft with minimal carbon emissions. It plays a significant role in research activity that Honeywell has committed to through the Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking, the European Union’s leading research and innovation program for transforming aviation toward a sustainable and climate-neutral future. 

www.honeywell.com

www.reactionengines.co.uk