Equipmake has launched the HPM-400, an ultra-light, powerful electric motor designed for high-performance aerospace and marine applications. Debuting at this year’s Future Propulsion Conference in Solihull, the HPM-400 is an advanced, high-power, short-life engine originally developed as a high-performance rocket fuel pump for Gilmour Space Technologies, based in Helensvale, Australia. For use on Eris. missile program

According to Equipmake, the HPM-400 can be used in high-performance environments thanks to technological and packaging innovations that allow the engine to withstand extreme acceleration during atmospheric and space operations.

Norfolk-based Equipmake Snetterton CEO Ian Foley said the first prototype took six months to develop and the engine did not require vacuum testing. He explained that compared to other systems, the engine must keep the propellant out of the electric motor cavity, so it must withstand the internal pressure of inert gases fed from the rocket.

“They enter the fuel slowly through the labyrinth seal to prevent fuel from entering the engine. Therefore, we have to pass more stringent pressure tests on the hull. Similarly, the mating inverter had to withstand internal pressure to maintain an electrical vacuum at sea level. Alternatives, namely larger internal air gaps or shutting down all internal engine parts, came with significant collective penalties.

“Compared to our other design vibration tested products, these standalone motors and inverters are all vibration acceptance tested in accordance with aerospace industry standard practice.” With a top engine speed of 20,000rpm, a maximum power/torque of 400kW/250Nm and a weight of only 30kg, the HPM-400 is considered the most powerful in the world. Together with the integrated silicon carbide inverter weighing 10 kg, the entire system weighs 40 kg.