Demonstration of the Microwave Ice Protection Concept
Abstract
An experimental demonstration of the microwave ice protection concept for helicopter rotor blades is presented. By shedding ice samples from experimental ice protection devices, microwave ice protection theory was verified. Increased power density in the ice layer is achieved by operating at higher microwave frequencies, resulting in significantly shorter shed times for the same microwave power. The microwave concept offers the possibility of constructing ice protection systems totally out of nonmetallic materials that will not deteriorate the radar cross section of composite blades. Incremental weight, cost and power estimates for equipping various helicopters are presented. An evolving microwave tube technology promises significant improvements in cost, efficiency, weight, and power drain while providing higher microwave powers and consequently shorter shed times. It is demonstrated that a combination erosion shield/surface waveguide constructed from ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fortified with a layer of polyurethane near the tip did not deteriorate the mean time between unscheduled maintenance (MTBUM) of the blade below that of the polyurethane erosion shield by itself. When the erosion shield/surface waveguide reaches the MTBUM it can be replaced without discarding the blade.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA055824
Entities
People
- Bertram Magenheim