Fmc Corporation

Zwick Energy Research Organization, Inc.

Edwin C Hightower

Thomas W Whitmire

The invention is a system for heating aircraft deicing fluid. The system is an aircraft deicer such as shown in FIG. 2 which includes an engine 210. The deicer systems comprises a tank 270 for holding deicing fluid. First pump means 250,252 and 254 are driven by engine 210 and pump deicing fluid from tank 270 through piping or conduit 266,264,230. Backpressure valve means 251,253,255 is positioned the outlet of the first pump means 250,252,254 respectively, to continuously, substantially and directly heat deicing fluid to a temperature sufficient to deice the aircraft. The system further comprises second pump means 212, 232 for directing deicing fluid through engine 210 to pick up heat rejected by engine 210. Once the deicing fluid has been pumped through engine 210, piping or a conduit means 216,222,228,230,266,264 connects the output of the second pump means 212,232 to the inlet of the first pump means 250,252 and 254.

Aircraft deicer fluid heating and propulsion system

A tank for heating deicing fluid in a mobile aircraft deicer comprises a submerged heat exchanger coil through which heating fluid passes. Propellers near the heat exchanger circulate the bulk of deicing fluid while it is being heated to help distribute the heat. Pivoting shutters isolate an area beneath the heat exchanger from the bulk of deicer fluid and from which deicing fluid is withdrawn by a pump. This allows the bulk of deicer fluid to be further heated in a 'last-pass' before being discharged upon the aircraft. A method of heating deicing fluid using this apparatus is also disclosed.

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Orlando, FL, United States of America

Edwin C Hightower