Parker Hannifin to support world’s first 1,000mph car08 February 2011

Motion and control technologies giant Parker Hannifin is supporting the pioneering Bloodhound SSC project, which should see a car break the 1,000mph land speed barrier.

Mark Cattermole, product manager Industrial systems for Parker Hannifin, explains that the fimr is supplying a range of hydraulic equipment that will be used from the initial test stages right through to final in-car systems.

He cites controls for the car's aerodynamic trim system and the air braking systems, as well as ground support equipment, as all benefiting from Parker equipment.

The Bloodhound mission statement – confront the impossible and overcome it using science engineering, technology and mathematics – ties in perfectly with Parker's own goals, says Cattermole.

Bloodhound is intended to become a platform for the best of British engineering and to inspire and motivate the engineers of the future.

It is being built around cutting edge technology, including a Eurojet EJ200 jet engine, to accelerate the vehicle to 300mph, and a Falcon rocket, which boosts speeds to 1,000mph or more.

Centrally mounted in the car is an 800hp auxiliary F1 engine that provides power to the hydraulics, starting of the jet engine and feeds high test peroxide through to the Falcon rocket.

Combined, these engines provide an impressive 135,000hp and give a 0-1,000mph time of just 42 seconds.

Parker is working with the Bloodhound engineering team to develop a series of test rigs that will provide test data for the evolution of hydraulically powered air brakes and control of winglets situated over the front wheels to maintain aerodynamic stability.

"It is great to watch our leading edge technology delivering the power to drive innovation in one of industry's most fast paced sectors," says Cattermole. "Another key element is the enthusiasm and inspiration that this project is sparking in the next generation of engineers, something we are always keen to support."

Brian Tinham

Related Companies
Parker Hannifin

This material is protected by MA Business copyright
See Terms and Conditions.
One-off usage is permitted but bulk copying is not.
For multiple copies contact the sales team.