SBIR / STTR #DAF26BZ03-NV016

USAF Solicitation for Compact High-Pressure CO₂ Compressor for Aviation Thermal Management

The U.S. Air Force is seeking innovative solutions for a compact, high-efficiency CO₂ (R-744) compressor to support aviation thermal management systems across multiple platforms. - Government Buyer: - U.S. Air Force (AFMC) - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or vendors are named in the solicitation - Products/Services Requested: - Development of a compact, aviation-grade CO₂ compressor - Must support high-pressure, transcritical CO₂ cycles - Capable of handling mission heat loads up to 200 kW - Turndown ratio of 3:1 (threshold) to 4:1 (objective) - Maintain thermal management system outlet temperature at 20°C ±5°C - Reject heat to a 50°C sink - Optimized for lightweight, compactness, low noise, and high isentropic efficiency under dynamic loads - Unique or Notable Requirements: - Compressor must be suitable for demanding aerospace environments - Emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and suitability for dual-use (military and commercial aviation) - Project includes design, prototype development, testing, and transition to integration and certification - Open to small businesses under the SBIR/STTR program

Description

This SBIR/STTR topic seeks innovative solutions for a compact high-pressure CO₂ compressor suitable for aviation thermal management systems. The goal is to develop a reliable, efficient, and lightweight compressor that can operate under the demanding conditions of aerospace applications. The solicitation is managed by the USAF under the command of AFMC. Proposals must be submitted via the designated procurement portal by the response deadline.

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