Qarbon Aerospace Introduces Helios: Advanced Composite Ice Protection System

Qarbon Aerospace’s leading edge structure technology, developed to demonstrate the efficiency and weight savings potential of the company’s Helios Ice Protection system compared to legacy anti-icing technology. Photo Credit, all images: Qarbon Aerospace

On July 14, Qarbon Aerospace Inc. (Red Oak, Texas, U.S.) launched its Helios Ice Protection system, an all-composite electrothermal system designed as an alternative to legacy ice protection technology such as pneumatic boots and bleed air.

According to Qarbon Aerospace, Helios consists of a thermoplastic/carbon fiber heating element with a layer of graphite, embedded within a thermoplastic composite leading edge structure for use on an aircraft wing, nacelle or empennage. The system has achieved icing protection certification requirements in numerous icing tunnel tests, and uses a zoned thermal profile to optimize power usage.

Qarbon Aerospace has partnered with AIR Group, a vertically integrated regional and turboprop aviation organization, for worldwide distribution of Helios. Together, Qarbon Aerospace and AIR Group will target airlines operating turboprop aircraft where there would be value in reducing the maintenance costs, replacement expenses and operational limits imposed by pneumatic boots.

The Helios Ice Protection system mounted to a wing section model of a commercial turboprop.

Evan Young, head of engineering at Qarbon Aerospace, says, “Significant technology and manufacturing development have positioned Helios Ice Protection to be a leap forward in safety when flying into known icing conditions. Extensive icing tunnel and operational evaluation tests have proven Helios is an efficient, low power and reliable solution for icing protection.”

Morgan Whitehead, VP of operations for AIR Group, says, “AIR has been supporting turboprop operators around the world for over 20 years. Our team of highly experienced professionals offer class leading around the clock AOG service from our distribution facility near DFW Airport in Texas. We believe Helios brings our customers a whole new level of value and safety, and we are proud to have been selected as Qarbon Aerospace’s partner for the supply of Helios and look forward to stocking and supporting this advanced technology system.”