2-kV 1-MW 20,000-RPM integrated modular motor drive for electrified aircraft propulsion

The fight against global climate change demands the electrification of aircraft propulsion. One of the most significant and distinct challenges that future multi-megawatt electrified propulsion will face is high voltage at high altitudes, which could cause significant partial discharge and reduce the reliability of the propulsion system. Recognizing this challenge, a multi-disciplinary research team has proposed, designed, built, and preliminarily tested a 2-kV 1-MW 20,000 RPM integrated modular motor drive (IMMD) with an unprecedented weight power density of 9 kW/kg. This paper presents the architecture, major design approaches, test results of associated power electronics systems at the rated voltage and current, and preliminary test results of the full IMMD prototype. Full power and system-level altitude tests of the IMMD are already planned at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA’s) test facility.