Chinese scientists from the Aero Engine Academy of China have announced a revolutionary development: the world’s first near-100% efficient jet engine afterburner.
The new afterburner reportedly achieves a burn efficiency exceeding 99%, comparable to the fuel efficiency of standard jet engines during cruising. Moreover, researchers claim the technology can reduce engine vibration by up to 80% under maximum operational loads, potentially minimizing the risk of engine damage and enhancing overall reliability.
Currently, afterburners work by injecting fuel into the high-temperature exhaust gases of jet engines, creating a secondary combustion phase. This process significantly increases the volume and velocity of exhaust gases, boosting thrust for supersonic flight or combat maneuvers. However, traditional afterburners come with downsides, including extreme fuel consumption—up to three times the normal rate—and increased engine wear from heat and vibration.
To address these limitations, the research team, led by engineer Wang Shiqi, developed a novel fuel nozzle design called the “self-exciting sweeping nozzle.” This technology uses a Z-shaped path for pulsed fuel injection at varying angles, ensuring that fuel droplets form a fan-like shape for more effective mixing with air. This design eliminates the need for moving or electromagnetic components, relying solely on inlet oil pressure to achieve superior fuel atomization and distribution.
Wang’s team has already secured a patent for the technology, which received a gold medal at the Aero-Engine Corporation of China’s Young Scientists Innovation Contest in 2022. Speaking about the challenges of the project, Wang shared his doubts during years of limited progress but credited support from colleagues for enabling the breakthrough. Reflecting on his dedication, he compared his efforts to the mythical swordsmith who devoted his entire being to forging the ultimate blade.
If the claims surrounding this new afterburner are verified, the implications could be profound. Unlike current afterburners, which are limited by high fuel costs and engine stress, the improved efficiency and reduced vibration of this technology might allow for extended use without compromising performance or safety. It could also shift the strategic dynamics of aerial combat, particularly in scenarios requiring sustained thrust.
While U.S. aircraft like the F-35 and F-22 rely on afterburners for enhanced performance, they face similar limitations due to heat buildup and fuel consumption. By potentially overcoming these barriers, China’s innovation could set a new benchmark for jet engine technology and influence the development of future supersonic and combat aircraft.