Safety
Spirit AeroSystems Developing Nacelle Anti-ice Systems
Taking a proactive approach toward the anti-icing regulations proposed by the FAA in June 2010–and still unscheduled for adoption into the FARs–Spirit Aero

Taking a proactive approach toward the anti-icing regulations proposed by the FAA in June 2010–and still unscheduled for adoption into the FARs–Spirit AeroSystems (Booth No. C11720) has been working with Wichita State University and an undisclosed supplier to develop two new anti-icing systems for nacelles surrounding large aircraft engines.

Spirit’s electro expulsive de-icing system (EEDS) uses an electromechanical “thumper” to tap the nacelle from the inside to shed ice. Spirit research-and-development manager Daryl Tasker estimates EEDS will weigh less and consume 85 to 95 percent less power than comparable bleed-air de-icing systems.