Leading electrification specialist, Equipmake, has unveiled an ultra-lightweight, power-dense electric motor, designed for high-performance space, aerospace and marine applications.
Based in Snetterton, Norfolk, Equipmake provides complete electric vehicle (EV) and mobility solutions, whatever the sector, offering the capability to design, test and manufacture everything from motors to fully electrified platforms.
Debuted at the Future Propulsion Conference, held in Solihull, UK, the HPM-400 is an advanced high-power, short-duration motor. It was originally specified as a high-performance rocket fuel pump for Australian company, Gilmour Space Technologies, for use in its Eris rocket programme.
Featuring several technological and packaging innovations born out of its need to withstand extreme acceleration while also operating at atmospheric pressure and in space, the HPM-400 has multiple applications in high-performance environments.
With a maximum motor speed of 20,000rpm, peak power/torque of 400kW/250Nm, yet a mass of just 30kg for the motor only, the HPM-400 is believed to be the most power-dense in the world. Combined with its integrated silicon carbide inverter, which weighs only 10kg, the entire system tips the scales at just 40kg. It’s good to see electric motors being used beyond the electric car space.
Ian Foley, Equipmake CEO, said: “Because of its original intention for use as a rocket fuel pump, the HPM-400 features several novel innovations over conventional motor/inverters, making it ideal for use in high-performance space, aerospace and marine applications.
“Firstly, the complete package is ultra-lightweight and capable of withstanding incredible acceleration. Secondly, when an inverter must operate in a vacuum, it needs to be high voltage, because lots of power is required.
“HPM-400 keeps air pressure inside and has been completely redesigned mechanically to withstand the pressure from within when it goes from the atmosphere into a vacuum.
“That has resulted in a super compact cylindrical package – conventional inverters being square – with a carbon fibre shell to keep pressure in and weight down. It all adds up to an advanced high power, low weight motor/inverter that’s at home in space, air or water.”
Back in November 2022, Equipmake showcased its latest all-electric bus technology with the new zero-emission version of the New Routemaster double-decker bus. The technology sees its hybrid drivetrain completely replaced with Equipmake’s cutting-edge all-electric Zero Emission Drivetrain (ZED).
