Rapidly Deployable Airborne Fuel Flowmeter (RDAFF)
ID: AF241-D009Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Rapidly Deployable Airborne Fuel Flowmeter (RDAFF)

Agency

Department of DefenseN/A

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTHYear: 2024
Timeline
  1. 1
    Release Nov 29, 2023 12:00 AM
  2. 2
    Open Jan 3, 2024 12:00 AM
  3. 3
    Next Submission Due Feb 21, 2024 12:00 AM
  4. 4
    Close Feb 21, 2024 12:00 AM
Description

The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "Rapidly Deployable Airborne Fuel Flowmeter (RDAFF)" as part of their SBIR 24.1 BAA solicitation. The objective is to develop a flowmeter that can be attached to the outside of aircraft fuel lines and accurately read fuel flow within the pipe. The current methods for gathering fuel flow measurements during military flight test events require invasive installation of turbine-type flow meters in-line with fuel supply lines, resulting in significant aircraft downtime. The RDAFF aims to allow for rapid installation and removal of fuel flowmeter instrumentation components while maintaining accuracy and repeatability. The technology should be easily attachable, versatile, and non-invasive to fuel lines, operate with standard aircraft power, provide accurate flow measurements on various aircraft fuels, and compensate for changes in fuel temperature and density. The project will have a Phase II prototype testing phase to achieve a Technical Readiness Level (TRL) 6 based on Air Force standards. The technology has potential military applications in reducing aircraft modification times and commercial applications in measuring fuel flows in petroleum extraction, refining, automotive, and industrial sectors.

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