Refueling of LH2 Aircraft—Assessment of Turnaround Procedures and Aircraft Design Implication

Green liquid hydrogen (LH2) could play an essential role as a zero-carbon aircraft fuel to reach long-term sustainable aviation. Excluding challenges such electrolysis, transportation and use of renewable energy in setting up (H2) infrastructure, this paper investigates the interface between refueling systems aircraft, impacts on distribution at airport. Furthermore, it provides overview key technology design decisions for LH2 procedures their effects turnaround times well design. Based comparison Jet A-1 refueling, new are described evaluated. Process steps under consideration connecting/disconnecting, purging, chill-down, refueling. The actual flow is limited simplified Reynolds term v · d = 2.35 m2/s. A mass rate 20 kg/s reached with inner hose diameter 152.4 mm. previous subsequent processes (without refueling) require 9 min purging 6 without purging. For assessment operation, process changes level ground support equipment compared current A-1. technical airport trucks pipeline dispensers presented. In addition technological solutions, explosion protection applicable safety regulations analyzed, overall validated. thermodynamic properties real, compressible fluid considered derive implications airport-side infrastructure. advantages disadvantages subcooled evaluated, cost elaborated. Behind storage tank, must be cooled least 19K prevent two-phase phenomena reduction during distribution. Implications investigated by understanding properties, including calculation methods tank volume, problems cavitation flows. conclusion, work presented shows that procedure feasible, compliant standards hence does not impact procedure. time most cases takes less than can performed truck or dispenser system generating direct losses, i.e., venting atmosphere.