Ice accumulation poses a serious threat to aircraft safety and function. Ice can clog engine inlets and the vents on fuel tanks, compromising the mechanical performance of the aircraft. Ice formation on wings, tails, and propellers can alter the aerodynamics of the aircraft and reduce the pilot’s control over the flight. Ice buildup on the windshield can reduce visibility.
Simply put, unchecked ice accumulation introduces serious risk to any flight. Thankfully, most aircraft are outfitted with deicing systems to keep ice at bay.
What Is a Deicing System?
An aircraft deicing system is an assembly of components designed with the purpose of removing ice from an aircraft to alleviate any accumulation that might have a detrimental impact on flight and function.
There are a wide range of airplane deicing systems on the market, in three broad categories:
Inflatable Boots
Pneumatic boot systems are a classic example of an aircraft deicing system. The technology was first developed in the 1930s and has been standard technology since World War II. The boot is a long, inflatable rubber strip that is affixed along the aircraft’s wings, propeller, and tail, where ice most commonly accumulates. When the pilot inflates the boot, the outward force breaks any ice that has accumulated along the wing. The broken shards of ice are then simply blown away. This can be done repeatedly.
Timing is key with boot deicing systems. A boot can easily break through a thin layer of ice, but if the pilot waits until the buildup is too thick, a boot may not be sufficient.
Chemical Deicing Systems
A chemical deicing system uses glycol-based antifreeze solutions to address ice buildup. Electrical pumps force deicing fluid through tiny holes on the wings and other areas of the aircraft, and the fluid triggers a chemical breakdown of the accumulated ice. Chemical deicing systems can also be deployed preemptively to prevent ice buildup.
There are many different types of deicing fluid, differing in thickness and duration of efficacy. Fluids are chosen based on the speed of the aircraft and the severity of the anticipated ice buildup.
Thermal Deicing Systems
A thermal deicing system breaks down ice accumulation with heat. Some thermal deicing systems, called bleed air systems, route hot air from the engine through the wings and other surfaces to melt ice. Other systems, called electro-thermal systems, rely on embedded heating elements to heat wings and propellers.
Anti-icing vs. Deicing
There is an important distinction to be made between anti-icing and deicing systems. While deicing systems work to remove ice buildup, airplane anti-icing systems are engaged proactively to prevent ice accumulation from occurring at all. Aircraft anti-icing systems are often engaged continuously, whereas deicing systems are only used as needed.
Anti-icing is especially vital for windshields, wings, and engines. Ice buildup in these areas can compromise the safety and performance of the aircraft, which increases risk. Taking early steps to prevent ice accumulation is key to a safe flight.
There is significant overlap between aircraft anti-icing and deicing systems and technology. Some thermal systems keep the surface temperature of the wings above freezing at all times. Chemical systems can create a protective film or slick surface that prevents ice buildup.
Types & Applications of Deicing Valves Used in Aerospace
An airplane anti-icing or deicing system includes a number of different valves, each with a specific purpose related to directing and managing the flow of media. Examples include pressure regulation valves, distribution valves, relief valves, isolation valves, and solenoid valves.
Pressure Regulation Valves
A pressure regulation valve maintains constant pressure within the deicing system. The valve opens and closes to compensate for fluctuations that may occur in flight.
Distribution Valves
Distribution valves direct and control the flow of media through the deicing system. A distribution valve may divide a single stream of media into multiple streams to different zones or change the direction of flow.
Relief Valves
A relief valve is a safeguard against the dangers of excess pressure. When excess pressure builds up within a deicing system, the assembly can malfunction, leak, or even rupture. The relief valve is designed to quickly and safely release excess pressure, mitigating the risks of damage or malfunction.
Isolation Valves
For aerospace manufacturing applications, an isolation valve is used to stop the flow of media to certain zones of the deicing system.
Solenoid Valves
There are many applications for solenoid valves. In the context of a deicing system, solenoid valves control the flow of deicing fluid, air, and other media by opening and closing in response to electrical signals.
Partner with NMG Aerospace for Trustworthy Deicing System Solutions
NMG Aerospace is proud to be a leading expert in aircraft deicing systems, with significant experience in deicing system valves. Many leading aircraft manufacturers trust NMG to produce reliable, high-quality deicing system components and valves that perform as designed and ensure smooth operations at all times, even in extreme weather conditions.
From the early stages of aircraft design to final product testing before deployment, we offer high-level support and expertise during every phase of the aircraft deicing system manufacturing process. We can help you develop a new system from scratch, make improvements to an existing assembly, or simply find a faster way to manufacture your parts and components.
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