Ice Protection Systems

GKN Aerospace Transparency Systems Luton (ATS) Electrothermal Ice Protection systems are high quality, long life and a cost effective Engineering solution to severe de-icing requirements. The systems comprise a sprayed metal matrix element, encapsulated by polymer composite materials, and can be attached or embedded within aircraft surface structures. The system provides protection through the generation of continuous or cyclic heat.

Efficient and effective ice protection can be provided to a variety of aircraft applications, including:

• Helicopter main and tail rotor blades
• Wing leading edges
• Engine air inlets (sub and super-sonic)
• Horizontal and vertical stabilisers
• Propeller spinners
• Oil coolers and equipment bay inlets
• Weapon Systems

The benefits of sprayed metal heater elements in composite structures:

• High fatigue life - comparable with polymer composite materials
• Electrical power is used efficiently because the heater element covers a high proportion of the system area, allowing heater element temperatures to be minimised.
• Power intensity gradients may be optimised
• System repairs will achieve original equipment performance
• Single element width can be tailored to suit the application
• Options for various power supply systems and voltages
• Critical aerodynamic profiles can be maintained by building heaters into structural parts.