Wright Electric validates electric motors at 43,000 feet

Wright Electric validates electric motors at 43,000 feet

Wright Electric Inc., a company specializing in advanced motor, generator, and inverter technologies, has announced the successful testing of their motor in a simulated atmosphere equivalent to 43,000 feet of altitude without Potential Discharge (PD). The test, conducted at 1,000 volts, paves the way for further simulated altitude testing at the NASA NEAT facility later this year.

PD-free performance is essential for the operation of electric motors on aircraft. High voltage operation can stress the insulation surrounding conductive components, potentially leading to PD and subsequent insulation degradation. This can cause motor failure and other safety concerns. As altitude increases, the voltage level needed to cause PD decreases. Therefore, PD is not typically an issue for many electric aircraft under development, such as air taxis, which cruise around 3,000 feet where standard insulation is sufficient. However, Wright Electric is developing motors and inverters for commercial aircraft that typically cruise at 36,000 feet, making air taxi solutions impractical.

The achievement of zero PD at this altitude is a significant step towards Wright’s goal of zero emissions on flights shorter than 800 miles. Wright has collaborated with NASA, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the Department of Defense on its motor and generator development efforts.

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