1, different volumes
The steam catapult needs to be equipped with steam storage tanks, pipelines and auxiliary equipment, which is too bulky. The latest steam catapult in the United States has a total volume of 1 100 cubic meter and a total weight of nearly 500 tons. The electromagnetic ejection system realizes "slimming and weight reduction". The whole set of electromagnetic ejection equipment is only over 500 cubic meters in volume and weighs 325 tons.
2, the energy amplitude is different
The maximum energy amplitude of electromagnetic ejection is 20% higher than that of steam ejection, which can release heavier aircraft. In addition, the electromagnetic injection power can be adjusted. By adjusting the output current, the takeoff weight can be adjusted between 2 tons and 70 tons, and the terminal speed can be arbitrarily set between 50 knots and 200 knots.
3. Different jacking forces
The ejection force adjustment range of steam ejection is small, so it is impossible to eject a lighter drone. In addition, the huge thrust that broke out in an instant also made the carrier-based pilots very uncomfortable. The acceleration curve of electromagnetic ejection is very smooth, which can greatly improve the physical burden of pilots and the structural life of aircraft.
National Defense Times-Which is better, steam ejection or electromagnetic ejection?