The Common Types of Anti-Icing Systems Used By Gas Turbines
When traversing areas with gas turbine engine aircraft where icing conditions are present, it is paramount that the aircraft is equipped with an anti-icing system. Ice can be very hazardous and detrimental to flight, posing the risk of reduced aerodynamic efficiency, decreased sight, internal engine damage, and much more. Anti-icing systems and aircraft deicing systems serve to remove and prevent the formation of ice on an aircraft, utilizing multiple methods and equipment types in order to guard various sections of the vehicle.
One of the most commonly used anti-icing systems are those that use bleed air for ice formation removal, that of which is compressed air that is taken from the compressor stage of gas turbines. This air is directed into the inlet air stream with the assistance of a bleed rake design, ensuring that a uniform flow of warm air is achieved within the filter house inlet to prevent the formation of ice. While the use of bleed air for such operations will reduce the overall efficiency of the gas turbine engine, it will typically only be around a 2% loss of total engine airflow.
The electro thermal system is another
common type of anti-icing system, taking advantage of resistance wires that are embedded within rubber padding. This padding is then situated in areas where ice formation tends to occur so that heat may be applied to prone areas with the use of electricity. Such thermal systems are quite advantageous for controlling the areas that are to be heated at the risk of causing hot spot formation and non-uniform heat distribution.
With an installed exhaust recirculation system, the hot exhaust gases from the combustion process of gas turbines is taken and mixed with cold ambient air. With the use of a bypass line that links the exhaust system to the air intake inlet system, the mixed air can be directed into the inlet air stream. Such systems are known for only causing a small pressure drop, and they are an advantageous heat source. Despite this, the exhaust recirculation system often can run into moisture and impurity presence within exhaust gas, potentially resulting in compressor fouling over time.
The pulse filter system is another anti-icing system which is optimal for protecting the filter elements of gas turbines. As ice forms within filters over time, the differential pressure of the elements will increase. Once the differential pressure value surpasses a set threshold, the system will commence filter pulse cleaning.
This will remove and extract any ice or contaminates through the use of the Augmented Secondary Air Circuit system. Such anti-icing systems are a standard installation by many gas turbine manufacturers for the protection of filters at the expense of using large amounts of compressed air.
Infrared heating is another form of thermal system, utilizing an infrared source such as an infrared lamp in order to heat surfaces. In order for such systems to efficiently prevent ice, they must be able to apply a heat that increases the temperature of a surface above that of the incoming air. Due to the heat produced by infrared heating systems, such devices should not be used around hazardous areas of the aircraft in order to prevent overheating or gas combustion.
Beyond such examples, numerous other anti-icing and aircraft deicing systems may be implemented for the means of removing and preventing detrimental ice formations. ASAP Sourcing Solutions is a premier distributor of aerospace parts, and we can help you secure all the gas turbine components, anti-icing systems, and other
aircraft products that you need for your various operations.
Take the time to explore our expansive part catalogs at your leisure, and our team of industry experts are readily available 24/7x365 to assist you through the purchasing process as necessary. Get started today with a competitive quote for your comparisons when you fill out and submit an Instant RFQ as provided on our website.
-
mary wilson
-
Posted on July 27, 2021
aerospace news