GT50 Starter Generator Testing

At the end of December, we successfully installed the first Hill starter generator unit onto our high-speed test rig. Since then, the team has been working tirelessly to align the system and run it through its full operating range. So far, we’ve hit an impressive 40,000 RPM, with just 10,000 RPM left to achieve our goal.

Zhenyu has been hard at work characterising the electrical properties of the starter generator, fine-tuning the control systems to ensure everything operates seamlessly. Once complete, this system will be ready for its dual roles: generating 10 kW of power and driving 8.5 kW as a motor to start the GT50 engine.

Speed Reduction Gearbox Progress

Module 4 of the GT50 engine—the speed reduction gearbox—is also making steady progress. We’ve begun assembling the test rig for the gearbox and are machining precision parts like input/output shafts and rapid-prototyped casings. The test rig will be ready shortly, paving the way for full gearbox testing in the coming weeks.

Fuel Spray Nozzle Development

These tiny yet sophisticated components must handle a wide range of fuel flow rates while atomising fuel into 20-micron particles for optimal combustion. After months of development and geometry optimisation, we’re now producing these nozzles to exact tolerances.