De-icing and Ice Shield™ frequently asked questions

Aircraft de-icing is the process of removing ice, snow, or frost from an aircraft's surface. Ice Shield utilizes pneumatic de-icers for wing boots and electro-thermal anti-icing for propeller boots, employing rubber polymers.

No, de-ice products are not seasonal. Aircraft operate in various climates and can encounter icing conditions at any time, especially above 20,000 feet 

Ice on wings disrupts airflow, reducing lift and increasing the risk of stalling, which can lead to loss of control.

Yes, aircraft equipped with pneumatic wing boots can inflate and deflate to remove ice during flight. The pilot can activate the de-ice boots to break ice on the leading edge, allowing it to shed off the wings.

De-ice boots are primarily made of neoprene, though some manufacturers use synthetic polymers like Estane or silver urethane for enhanced durability and aesthetics.

Ice Shield's pneumatic wing de-ice boots use bleed air or vacuum pumps to dislodge ice during inflation and deflation. The system can be manually activated or controlled by a timer. 

Ice Shield’s pneumatic wing boots cycle approximately every 6 seconds on and 54 seconds off.

Ice Shield supports the following aircraft components: 

• Wings 
• Vertical and horizontal tail 
• Propellers 
• Engine inlets 

After the initial de-icing cycle, it may be necessary to activate the boots multiple times depending on the severity of icing conditions. 

No, Ice Shield™ offers non-hazard de-ice systems. FIKI certification is determined by the airframe manufacturer, and it is recommended to avoid icing conditions whenever possible.

Yes, regular inspections and cleaning of the de-icing system are essential, especially before and after flights. With proper care, de-ice boots typically last between 3 to 10 years, but debris can significantly shorten their lifespan. 

Inlet de-icing systems prevent ice buildup around engine inlets, which can lead to engine damage and airflow issues. 

The anti-ice control valves manage airflow from the pneumatic system into the aircraft's boots. When activated, these valves open to route pressurized air into the boots, facilitating ice breakup on the wings. 

Inflate and deflate valves control air pressure in the boots when the aircraft is not in use. Deflate valves release air to allow for maximum expansion when the boots are inflated. 

De-icing products, such as pneumatic wing and electro-thermal propeller boots, are installed using various adhesives depending on the aircraft type. Ice Shield™ wing boots can be applied with glue or pressure-sensitive adhesives.

De-ice harnesses secure conductor wires of a de-icing system, protecting them from extreme conditions and ensuring reliable operation throughout the flight. Some models feature quick disconnect systems for easy replacement. 

De-ice repair kits are essential for fixing de-icing systems, enabling them to effectively remove ice from critical aircraft areas. Kits include neoprene patches, a medium grit cloth, and primer adhesive to repair holes in pneumatic wing boots. 

Edge sealers, made from conductive cement, protect the edges of de-icing systems. Ice Shield's conductive edge sealer, made from neoprene, creates a smooth transition between the boot and wing, ensuring a secure bond and electrical connection. 

Yes, using conductive cement is crucial as it protects the adhesive bond and provides an electrical path from the de-icer to the aircraft surface, ensuring a professional installation. 

It is recommended to minimize pressurization of the de-icers for 48 hours after installation to ensure the best long-term strength of adhesive bonds. 

De-icer application may be delayed for up to 48 hours. Keep the bond surfaces covered and clean. If the delay is greater than 48 hours but less than 5 days, re-stir the adhesive and apply another coat to all previously cemented surfaces. Allow at least one hour for the adhesive to dry completely before applying the pneumatic de-icer. A maximum of 3 coats of adhesive is allowed. 

We recommend Ice Shield Plus, a silicone-based liquid coating that reduces ice adhesion to pneumatic de-icer surfaces, enhancing efficiency and performance. Avoid using Armor All or similar products.

Clean pneumatic de-icers with a soap and water solution when needed, rinsing with clean water. Do not use hot water; it should be comfortable to the bare hand. If using cleaning compound MIL-C-25769, thoroughly rinse the pneumatic de-icer with clean water.

The Ice Shield™ pneumatic de-icer installation kit (P/N 2MA1414) includes most necessary tools, such as rollers, a stitcher, vacuum block, scissors, utility knife, and swabs. Additional items needed include toluene, denatured alcohol, a plastic scraper, chemical gloves, masking tape, chalk line, permanent marker, and straightedge. 

We recommend Peerco 321 Adhesive Remover, an environmentally friendly product that does not contain ketones like MEK. Apply liberally, allow to stand for 10 minutes, then rinse off with water and wipe dry.