IHI Successfully Developed and Tested the World's First Gas-Bearing Vacuum Pump for Hybrid Laminar Flow Control Vacuum Pump

TOKYO--( BUSINESS WIRE )-- IHI Corporation (TOKYO:7013) is proud to announce the successful development and world-first testing of a cutting-edge vacuum pump designed for hybrid laminar flow control (HLFC) systems. The newly developed vacuum pump, equipped with a gas-bearing motor, is a critical component in enabling HLFC systems, which are advanced aerodynamic control technologies with eyes toward reducing aircraft drag in low-pressure air (where air density is about one-tenth of that at ground level). The testing, conducted under conditions simulating HLFC operation, was completed at the Joint Research Center for Electric Architecture with the support of Akita University.

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Atmospheric air suction system of HLFC on aircraft (concept image)

HLFC technology has been recognized as a promising solution for drag reduction in aircraft since the 1930s. However, its implementation has faced significant challenges, particularly in developing compact, lightweight, and reliable vacuum pumps capable of handling low-density air at cruising altitudes (approximately 10,000). IHI's newly developed vacuum pump overcomes these hurdles through the following technological innovations:

Key Features and Technological Advancements

1. Gas-Bearing Motor Technology
   Utilizing gas-bearings minimizes friction and wear, ensuring reliable operation under the harsh conditions of high-altitude flight while reducing maintenance requirements.
2. Compact and Lightweight Design
   Incorporating state-of-the-art ultra-high-speed rotation technology minimizes the impact on aircraft system weight, making it ideal for HLFC applications focus on drag reduction.
3. Enhanced Control and Efficiency
   The gas-bearing system is designed to operate effectively in low-density air and maintains stable performance despite changes in atmospheric pressure during flight.

IHI is committed to developing technologies that improve aircraft operational efficiency. This breakthrough vacuum pump addresses longstanding challenges in HLFC systems, paving the way for improved fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions in aviation. By providing innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers, IHI continues to lead the development of next-generation propulsion systems and sustainable aviation technologies.　

Note

HLFC(Hybrid Laminar Flow Control)
HLFC is a technology designed to reduce the air drag of an aircraft. It uses a powered system to actively control airflow by suctioning air through tiny holes on the surface of the wing. Specifically, air is suctioned near the leading edge to efficiently suppress crossflow instability.
In the rear section of the wing, the design maintains smooth airflow (laminar flow) by creating a favorable pressure gradient, similar to natural laminar flow. This approach combines different control methods for the front and rear parts of the wing, optimizing the overall aerodynamic performance.
By controlling airflow through this targeted suction, HLFC significantly reduces drag on the wings, leading to improved fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions.

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