Handling Severe Inlet Conditions in aircraft Fuel Pumps

Early in 1980, with the important, LHX helicopter program apparently heading toward realization, the aerospace industry began research-development work in preparation for the expected competition. One of the known, diflicult, new LHX requirements was operation with severely depressed fuel at the inlet to the fuel pump, representing operation without the benefit of the booster pumps in the tanks at all conditions. Chandler Evans was a participant in this research work from its early stages. This paper presents an overview of conceptual approach; highlights on qualitative performance theory, certain construction aspects and performance of the configuration that successfully demonstrated compliance with the new requirements.