Optimization of Pneumatic Subsystems to Reduce Aircraft Penalties on Large Commercial Transports

This paper analyzes approaches for the optimization of pneumatic subsystems to reduce aircraft penalties on large commercial transports. Optimizing the engine design based on engine performance alone, leads to a design based on zero compressor bleed and regards any subsequent use of compressor bleed as an unattractive penalty. This paper reviews the various compressed air source approaches that have been applied, and concludes that with a sound engineering approach, including optimizing engine design for normal bleed air flow, the engine compressor is the most efficient source.