De-icing and anti-icing methods help to prevent the formation of the ice. The different prevention methods are –
- Heating the surface using hot air or electrical heating element.
- Breaking up the ice formation by inflatable boots.
- Alcohol spray.
Depending on the location in the aircraft, various methods are used. The various locations are –
| S. No. | Location | Methods |
| 1. | Leading edge of the wing, horizontal and vertical stabilizer. | Pneumatic & thermal method. |
| 2. | Windshield, windows & radon, engine air inlet, stall warning transmitter, flight controls, propeller blades & its leading edge, pitot tube | Electrical method |
Different De-icing & Anti-icing Methods
- Pneumatic De-icing System
The pneumatic de-icing system uses rubber de-icers called boots which are attached to the leading edge of the wing and stabilizer. During the operation, the tube is filled with pressurised air and deflated in an alternative cycle. This operation causes the ice to break off and carried away by the air stream. The source of the air could be an engine-driven pump or the air from the jet engine-driven pump.
- Thermal Anti-icing System
The thermal anti-icing system uses heating air ducted along the leading edge of the airfoil and distributed around its inner surface. However, electrically heated elements are also used for anti-icing and de-icing of airfoils leading edge.
- Wind Shield Icing System
In some cases, windshields are built with double panels having a case between them which allows circulation of heated air between the surfaces and control icing or fogging. In other cases, windshield wipers and anti-icing fluid are sprayed. In modern aircraft, windows are electrically heated with built-in element in them, A layer of tempered glass gives strength to withstand the pressure.
- Water & Toilet Drain Heaters
Heaters are installed in toilet drain lines, water lines, waste-water drains. These are located in an area which is subjected to freezing temperature.
