When it comes to environmental sustainability, emissions and CO2 levels are often given the lion’s share of the attention. However, water shortage is set to become a severe issue in the future – and not only for arid regions. As much as 36% of the world’s cities are set to suffer from water shortages by 2050. That includes the likes of New York, London, Singapore, Beijing, and Istanbul.
The World Health Organization predicts that over half the world’s population will reside in water-stressed areas as early as 2025. However, some regions and countries have long lived with restricted access to fresh water, and some of them are leading the way in water-saving technology.
Saving water by up to 40%
Along with General Electric, Gulf carrier Qatar Airways now applies a technology known as the GE 360 Foam Wash system to clean its aircraft engines. This method reduces water usage for the process by as much as 40%. Not only that, but it has allowed the airline to reduce fuel costs, carbon footprint, and even increase the life on wing.
As the video above describes, the method is proving particularly beneficial for engines flying through dusty environments. In climates and surroundings such as that of much of the Middle East, fan blades and other internal parts accumulate a lot of dust particles which will have a negative impact on the engine’s performance.
Over 1000 washes completed since 2017
GE first began testing the method in 2017 on fielded engines, or engines in service with customers. The program reached a major milestone just ahead of the 2021 Dubai Airshow as it completed the 1000th engine wash. It is an alternative to the traditional water wash method, and the process involves injecting a specially-formulated, proprietary solution that removes dirt particles in the engine.
For a 777, the GE Foam Wash can save 35,000 gallons of fuel per year over 700 cycles per year. Photo: Getty Images
According to General…