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It is I'm afraid looking a…

Home Forums Historic Aviation Bleak future for piston engined 'classics'? It is I'm afraid looking a…

#739063
hypersonic
Participant

It is I’m afraid looking a little bleak. Not much research, if any, is going into providing a long-term solution.

Just down the road from me, at Cotswold A/P, (the former RAF Kemble) a number of projects are underway based around hydrogen and battery technology – but neither are compatible with vintage pistons.

Most modern jet engines can be operated on SAF. Indeed in the last year, or so, we have seen trans-Atlantic flights operate with SAF. As well as the RAF operating an A330 on 100% SAF.

Whilst on Jury service, about 6 years ago, I read an Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) article on H4O. H4O is basically very fizzy water. The article went onto describe how the product could be used in internal combustion engines (as per motor vehicles). When used it does not produce any gas waste. Indeed an exhaust system is not required. Further, it has the advantage of almost no modification to the engine. However, a modified fuel tank is required – not beyond the wit of man!!  Also, the delivery infrastructure (storage tank, bowser etc) would need some modification – also not beyond the wit of man.

Could that provide a solution?