Eike Krüger

My name is Eike Krüger. I studied electrical engineering at Jade University Wilhelmshaven and at Leibniz University Hannover, where I obtained my M.Sc. degree in 2022. During my studies I developed a keen interest in electrical machines and drives. After finishing my degree, I became a research associate in the Institute for Drive Systems and Power Electronics of Leibniz University Hannover. My current research focuses on electric drive systems for aircraft.

In order to assess different drive systems for electric aircraft in terms of efficiency and power density, it is essential to predict the losses in each component. My current research focuses on the calculation of losses due to a frequency converter connected to electrical machines for aircraft. A further research area is the development of cooling strategies for electrical machines with high power density.

Aviation is a fascinating field, not only from a technological but also from a social perspective. However, there is an immediate need to make air traffic more environmentally friendly. I draw great motivation from directly contributing to the shaping of the aircraft of the future, which will enable people from all across the globe to come together in an environmentally friendly manner.

There are two possible options for energy storages in future aircraft: batteries and hydrogen. In case of the use of a fuel cell, both require an electric drive system that generates the necessary thrust. Some key qualities in the design of such an electric drive system are reliability and fail-safe operation. Further, the choice of a drive system contributes to the overall aircraft weight not only with its own weight, but also by influencing the necessary energy to be stored due to different efficiencies for a given flight mission. Therefore, different options for drive systems have to be considered and evaluated regarding the following three key criteria: energy efficiency, power density and reliability.

The interdisciplinary research network enables us to work closely together across different fields of research and to understand the basics of the fields of our fellow researchers. This not only enables to exploit synergies, but it also opens up new perspectives on questions and brings new solutions to mind.