A Closer Look at exFan Achievements
The exFan project continues to advance across several technical areas, focusing on understanding of aircraft integration, propulsion system layout, and the development of heat exchanger technologies that will play a central role in the final concept.
Key Developments & Achievements
exFan Concept
Defined the full exFan system architecture, integrating all core components: thermal management (ADT), electric machine (EGILE), gearbox (TUM), fan (DLR), energy system (PID), and heat propulsor (TUW, FHG). Delivered key performance targets for the mechanical powertrain (power, efficiency, mass, volume, power density) and established reference cases for life-cycle comparisons with conventional and alternative propulsion systems.
Heat Propulsor: Heat Exchanger & Surface Design
Major progress in surface engineering:
- Produced 155+ test samples, advancing from simple to complex geometries.
- Reduced surface roughness by ~50% (Ra 11 → 6 μm) via chemical polishing.
- Applied NiP coatings (9–30 μm thick) to boost corrosion/erosion resistance without hurting thermal performance.
- Developed innovative TPMS-inspired heat exchanger designs for better airflow and efficiency.
Networking
From 7–8 July 2025, the exFan project hosted Vienna Aviation Days 2025 (VAD2025) at the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKO) in Vienna, powered by Advanced Drivetrain Technologies GmbH (ADT). Held under the theme “Future propulsion systems: from tank to thrust, from research to qualification,” the two-day event united over 150 stakeholders from across Europe, including industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers, for in-depth discussions on next-generation aircraft propulsion.
Key highlights included:
- 25+ technical presentations across five thematic sessions
- Representation from 15 EU-funded projects within the ClimAvTech cluster
- Active participation from companies, universities, and government ministries
Sharing Knowledge
Publication(s)
“Fundamentals of Innovative Aircraft Heat Exchanger Integration for Hydrogen-Electric Propulsion” | TUW | https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace12040320
Conferences and events participation
The exFan project team is actively engaging with the aviation and engineering communities through events and publications:
- AERODAYS: Dr. Hanns Amri from ADT represented the project in this leading event in aviation research and innovation
- VAD2025: Project Coordinator Dr. M. Belén García Blanco presented a work related to surface finishing of AM based Heat Exchangers
- 15th EASN International Conference: IRES and TUW represented exFan project with works related to LCA in Aviation and Thermal Management in (Hybrid)-Electric Propulsion Systems, respectively
Follow our progress
The exFan project is advancing hydrogen-electric propulsion with a focus on practical industrial applications. Stay informed on our developments and key milestones by visiting our website and following us on LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.
Join us in shaping the future of aviation through research-driven innovation.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor CINEA can be held responsible for them.