North Haven, CT (August 30th, 2022) - Precision Combustion, Inc. (PCI) has been awarded an Air Force Small Business Innovation Research Phase I program for a potentially transformative advancement in high-speed airbreathing propulsion systems. PCI will develop and demonstrate a new ignition and flame stabilization system that boosts fuel reactivity and flame speed for improved combustion efficiency and combustor stability.
The core innovation lies in its novel catalytic component, which is exceptionally compact and has a lightweight design. By utilizing onboard fuels and enabling combustion augmentation in millisecond timeframes, the technology offers new performance potential for advanced engines. PCI’s catalyst can be integrated into tight spaces, minimizing physical protrusions, and simplifying fuel and air control while imposing negligible parasitic requirements.
During the Phase I project, the team will undertake analytical assessments to confirm the system's suitability, including determining the necessary flow rates for ignition and combustion enhancement in scramjet engines. PCI will also conduct experimental investigations to determine the precise size and weight requirements of the catalytic component for optimal performance using various Jet-fuels of interest. Finally, we will identify the specific combustion testing needs for Phase II and explore potential engine integration options. PCI plans to expedite the development and deployment of the proposed ignition and flame stabilization system, marking a significant leap forward in the aviation field.
"We believe our combustion augmentation approach has great potential to boost engine performance," said Kevin Burns, President of PCI. "We’re looking forward to this chance to show what the technology can do and bring its advantages to our Air Force customer.”
Precision Combustion, Inc. is a clean energy and environmental technology company developing new reactors and systems for energy and environmental sector applications.
For more information, contact:
Tony Anderson
Director, Marketing and Business Development
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