Reaction Engines achieves precooler tech milestone at Abingdon HQ

Reaction Engines has successfully demonstrated the integration of its precooler technology with existing jet-engine architecture.

The Oxfordshire firm achieved sustained Mach 3.5 operating conditions and proved the viability of a key element for its innovative propulsion system concept.

Its precooler was integrated and close-coupled with a modified Rolls-Royce jet engine to simulate a propulsion system for an unpiloted, reusable high-Mach air vehicle concept.

The test initially achieved sustained Mach 2.3 operating conditions, representing speeds faster than Concorde’s maximum operating speed, before reaching Mach 3.5 pressures and temperatures, matching the maximum known airspeed record of the SR-71 – the world’s fastest aircraft powered by an air-breathing engine.

As well as precooler technology, Reaction Engines is developing and testing novel high-Mach intake designs and technology for hypersonics capabilities.

Hardware is currently being manufactured and assembled for a full-scale ground-based high-Mach thermomechanical test, and the team are already undertaking sub-scale aerodynamic wind tunnel testing.

Mark Thomas, chief executive of Reaction Engines, said: “As the world’s most advanced heat exchanger technology company, this significant milestone is a testament to our relentless efforts to develop novel, innovative, reusable and affordable propulsion systems for hypersonic air vehicles at pace.

“This capability is transferrable to thermal management solutions for multiple applications and mission profiles.”