NASA’s “all-electric” plane X-57 is set to take off: The US space agency NASA’s X-57 “all-electric” plane is about to take off. The aircraft is totally propelled by electricity and has 14 propellers along its wings. Recently, NASA’s X-57 Maxwell performed successful thermal testing of its cruise motor controllers. Because it confirms the design, usability, and level of craftsmanship of aviation controllers, thermal testing is crucial. The controllers have temperature-sensitive parts and must be able to withstand extreme conditions during flight.
About the NASA’s “all-electric” plane X-57
The X-57 uses lithium batteries to run electric motors for its propellers. The aircraft’s motors are powered by the energy that is stored in the lithium-ion batteries through the cruise motor controllers. However, compared to jet fuel, lithium-ion batteries have 50 times less energy.The controllers use silicon carbide transistors to deliver 98% efficiency during high-power take-off and cruise, meaning they do not generate excessive heat and can be cooled off by the air flowing through the motor. With a range of about 160 km and a flight time of about one hour, the X-57 is not expected to lead to a replacement technology for long-haul flying. Instead, short-hop flights with ten or so passengers are a good and potentially possible target for early, battery-powered flights.