Higher Voltage Aircraft Power Systems

Modern aircraft designs are focused on minimising the use of engine bleed air, eliminating gearboxes, and reducing the reliance on hydraulic systems. Instead, many of these mechanical systems will be replaced with electrical versions. The increasing amounts of electrical power that will be shipped through an aircraft means that it is increasingly difficult to rely on low voltage power systems owing to voltage drop and weight constraints. This discusses the challenges that relate to the safe use of higher voltage systems within aircraft.