Novel Electric Field Sensors for Advanced Aero-Engine Monitoring

This project is developing a novel electric potential sensing technique for use in gas turbine engine monitoring. Specifically the project seeks to optimise the sensor for measurement of ultra-high temperature. This could lead to an industry first of measuring combustion exit temperature, which would have a significant impact on engine efficiency, fuel consumption and emissions. However, as a second objective, the sensor will then be optimised to allow measurement of high temperature blade tip clearance and corollary parameters such as rotational speed. In this case, the technology could displace several existing techniques and improve current temperature limitations. The project will develop the sensors, electronics and associated packaging demonstrators for proof-of-concept tests via a range of laboratory and small engine trials. The project team consists of Meggitt (Lead), the University of Sussex, and Plessey Semiconductors.