Tue, Aug 31, 2010
Fully Integrated Ice Protection System Allows FIKI Helicopter
Operation
A rotorblade ice protection system for the AgustaWestland AW139
medium twin-engine helicopter developed by Goodrich has received
certification from the FAA, EASA, and Transport Canada Civil
Aviation (TCAA). The rotorblade ice protection system is part of
the AW139's full ice protection system that provides its
all-weather capability, making it the first helicopter in its
category certified for flight into known icing conditions
(FIKI).
File Photo
Goodrich says the rotorblade ice protection system (RIPS) was
designed and integrated as an ice protection solution for the AW139
platform resulting in a robust, highly reliable, and fully
automated ice protection system. RIPS uses Goodrich's unique
DuraTherm electrothermal mats which can tolerate considerable
damage, including punctures, and continue to provide ice
protection. With expertise in ice detection, power distribution and
DuraTherm de-icing technologies, Goodrich says it is the only
systems supplier able to offer an all-inclusive ice detection and
ice protection system.
"The recent certifications of our rotorblade ice protection
system on the AW139 confirms Goodrich's ability to partner with
customers to provide both the avionics and advanced heating
technology in a single-source ice protection solution for
helicopters," said Steve Guetter, rotorcraft business development
director for Goodrich Sensors and Integrated Systems.
"The development of a completely integrated civil certified ice
protection system was a 'first time' both for AgustaWestland and
Goodrich," added Enrico Bellussi, ice protection system design team
manager for AgustaWestland, "and the key factor for the success of
this venture was the pro-active, collaborative and problem-solving
attitude adopted by the whole team. Continuous support and
side-by-side work enabled the development of a complex system that
impacted the whole helicopter both in installation and in overall
performance."
Goodrich says its ice detection and ice protection products are
used extensively on many helicopter platforms including the
Bell-Boeing V-22, Boeing Apache AH-64, NHIndustries NH90, new
Korean Aerospace Industries Surion utility helicopter, and the
Sikorsky Black Hawk, CH-/MH-53, S-76 and S-92.
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