Overview
In this proposal we developed a hybrid low power ice protection modelling tool. This consisted of combining our existing knowledge on separate electrothermal and electromechanical ice protections systems into a single, integrated, computer code. We also tested (but not manufacture, which is a separate CfP) a hybrid Wing Ice Protection System (WIPS) in an icing wind tunnel. The data gathered during the icing wind tunnel test was used to validate the new design code.
Funding
Results
Executive Summary:
The modular Hybrid ElectroThermal and ElectroMechancial Simulation (HETEMS) software is a new capability to design modern low power electrical wing ice protection systems (WIPS). The five-year project (no. 255657, HETEMS) included development, verification and validation of the various simulation models combined with a large scale test in the CIRA Icing Wind Tunnel, in December 2013, to provide data for code validation.
The sole beneficiary of the project was AeroTex UK LLP, although the project required and used input from several key collaborative members and the Topic Manager. Both traditional electrothermal (ET) and new electromechanical (EM) IPS, or combinations of both (known as Hybrid systems, or HIPS) may be simulated in the code using either fast and efficient 2D methods, or more detailed, but longer to conduct, analyses using 3D methods. Comparisons with test data from predicted model temperature and ice shed show an acceptable level of correlation.
All of the industrial partners have been given a licence to use the HETEMS software for use in their own, in-house, IPS design. AeroTex plan to continue to extend the capability in the future to model rotating components, such as engine fan blades or propellers (under the FP7 STORM project). At AeroTex, the HETEMS modules are already finding application in support of customer projects, both for R&D and aircraft specific programmes in support of icing certification activities.