Performance analysis of a new multifunctional aircraft environmental control system under variable operating conditions

Abstract

As long-distance flights increase, the widespread use of electric heating for hot water in domestic civil aircraft will pose a challenge to the aircraft's energy systems. Moreover, the aircraft environmental control system operates under variable environmental conditions during aircraft take-off, leading to changes in system performance and outlet parameters. In this paper, mathematical models of the new aircraft environmental control system are established during aircraft take-off, and the main factors affecting the performance of systems are discussed. Results show that hot water with an average temperature of 61 °C can be provided by the new system during aircraft take-off. In the new multi-functional system, the bleed air supply volume during aircraft take-off is less than that of the conventional system, and the system energy loss is also less. When the aircraft just takes off, the condenser accounts for the most significant portion of the system exergy loss. However, the exergy loss in the secondary heat exchanger is the largest, as the aircraft altitude increases. Compared with the conventional system, the exergy efficiency of the new system is 8.85% higher at a 4-5 km level flight, and it’s 3.21% higher at a 9-10 km level flight.