Improving Aircraft Safety in Icing Conditions

During flight through clouds, suspended droplets impact upon forward-facing parts of an aircraft and turn to ice. The often rapid ice growth is a serious safety concern. Modelling this process is a considerable challenge, with complicated physics and geometries. Fundamental mathematical research into relevant droplet impacts and splashing was lacking but recent research has improved understanding. An aircraft consultancy firm, AeroTex, uses our research findings to design new and improved ice protection systems for fixed wing or rotor aircraft. New designs help aircraft operate more safely in icing conditions and are required because of current changes raising aircraft certification standards.