GB553597A - Improvements in and relating to methods of and apparatus for preventing the formation of ice on aircraft propellers - Google Patents

Abstract

553,597. De-icing airscrew blades. BRITISH THOMSON-HOUSTON CO., Ltd., and STRETTON A. T. April 3, 1942, No. 4509. Drawings to Specification. [Class 114] For preventing the formation of ice on an airscrew blade, insulated electric resistance wire is rolled into or otherwise embedded in unvulcanized flexible hard rubber, the surface of which may have been softened by a solvent, the rubber then being forced into intimate contact with the blade and vulcanised in position. Where the rubber is to be applied, the metallic blade is given a matt surface, heated slightly, and painted with rubber solution. When the solvent of this coating has evaporated, bound tape or a bag is used for maintaining contact between the rubber and metal during the early stages of vulcanization. The heating elements may be applied in one or more lengths at or adjacent the leading edge, and they may be spread around the root of the blade where the wires are connected to terminals or collector rings. The blade may be grooved to receive the heating elements.