ARKANSAS, Nov 18 (Future Headlines)- DeltaHawk Engines, renowned for its FAA-certified jet-fueled piston engine for general aviation aircraft, has completed advanced simulation analysis for a hydrogen-fueled variant of its engine family. This breakthrough not only demonstrates the adaptability of DeltaHawk’s engine architecture to hydrogen fuel but also expands its applications beyond aviation, encompassing zero-emission vehicles (ZEV), various commercial power applications, and multiple defense platforms.

The recent tests showcase that DeltaHawk’s patented engine design, rooted in proven internal combustion engine (ICE) technology, is well-suited for hydrogen fuel. This is a significant stride toward providing an alternative to more expensive and infrastructure-dependent fuel cell systems. Hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engines present a higher tolerance for hydrogen impurities compared to fuel cells, and the technology allows for leveraging existing ICE manufacturing expertise and extensive service networks.

DeltaHawk’s engine design not only offers advantages in reduced development costs and time to market but also boasts higher durability and cost-effectiveness due to its mature technology. One standout feature is its significantly reduced power degradation curve over time when compared to current fuel cell technology, leading to better fuel economy after the initial period.

Building on the success of its aviation engine architecture, DeltaHawk is extending its portfolio by developing new variants of its engine family designed to use hydrogen fuel across various applications. The compact, lightweight, and durable design, based on patented two-stroke technology, positions DeltaHawk’s engine family as an ideal solution for hydrogen fuel.

While other commercial vehicle engine manufacturers explore the conversion of their ICE powerplants to hydrogen, DeltaHawk’s computer simulation testing is proving superior to legacy four-stroke engine architectures.

The DHK180, a 180-horsepower engine that burns jet fuel, serves as the pioneer in DeltaHawk’s engine family. It offers ease of operation, high fuel efficiency, reduced maintenance, and superior altitude performance compared to traditional aircraft piston engines. Notably, NASA has chosen the DHK180 for its Subsonic Single Aft Engine project (SUSAN), and Ampaire has selected it for a hybrid proof-of-concept aircraft.

As DeltaHawk Engines advances its hydrogen-fueled engine, it not only opens new possibilities in aviation but also lays the groundwork for environmentally friendly solutions in ground transportation, commercial power, and defense applications. This diversification showcases the versatility and potential impact of DeltaHawk’s innovative engine technology across multiple sectors.

Reporting by Kevin Wood; Editing by Sarah White