Project Title:

Experimental Investigation of Shape Memory Alloys for Use In Rotorcraft De-icing

03.01-0533
902141
Experimental Investigation of Shape Memory Alloys for Use In Rotorcraft De-icing

Abstract:

Systems
Increased readiness and safety demands being made on helicopters require an all-weather
capability. While several promising deicers have been developed for fixed wing aircraft,
the requirement still exists for a reliable de-icing system compatible with helicopter
blades. The ideal deicer must be small, require a minimum amount of interface hardware,
be able to operate efficiently on low power/voltage, and be able to survive leading
edge erosion effects. This project will develop a unique ice protection system that
is based on the capability of shape memory alloys (SMAs) to change dimension rapidly
and reversibly when current or heat is applied. Several methods to induce the shape
memory effect including inherent resistive heating of the SMA, or heat transfer from
an attached thermal couple or conventional electrothermal de-icing coil will be investigated.
Mechanical debonding is expected to take place in seconds versus minutes using only
a fraction of the power required for thermal debonding. Helicopter blades may be
the ideal application for shape memory deicers because of the small leading edge
area and availability of convective cooling to induce martensitic transformations.
Phase I includes design and test of a SMA helicopter blade deicer prototype for evaluation
of leading edge ice debonding performance.
A shape memory alloy de-icing system may be well suited for use on marine vessels
and advanced commercial transports.
shape memory alloy, de-icing, rotorcraft