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

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

Reducing weight by more than 30 per cent

Benefits of this collaboration are immediately apparent: Reaction Engines develops unique heat exchange technology that can reduce weight by more than 30 per cent, 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.

Future generations of aircraft powered by sustainable fuels will require much more efficient and lightweight thermal management than what is available today.

Sustainability commitments

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. Decarbonizing 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 groundbreaking 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.”
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