Evaluation of the Influence of Icing on Wings on Aircraft Flight Parameters

The phenomenon of icing is the process of changing the state of concentration of water contained in the atmosphere in the form of water vapor into a solid form deposited on the elements of the construction of aircraft. This phenomenon has a negative effect on the flight mechanics of the aircraft. The settling ice structures change the shape of the airfoil, which causes a reduction in the maximum lift force coefficient of the airfoil and, consequently, a reduction in the value of the lift force generated by the airfoil. As a result of icing, the weight of the aircraft increases, while its drag of movement increases. Deterioration of flight properties of the aircraft translates into increased fuel consumption. To assess the effect of icing of the wings on the flight parameters of the aircraft, numerical simulations of the prepared wing models were performed: clean, airfoil shaped icing structure, solid icing structure. The analysis of the change of the lift force, airfoil drag and the increase of the wing’s weight was carried out. The results, analysis and conclusions from the conducted research are presented in this article.