AeroTex specialises in numerical simulation of ice accretion and ice protection systems. Using both 2D and 3D tools we perform aerodynamic simulation, water droplet trajectories and the resulting surface water collection and ice accretion, as well as simulating the dynamic response of thermal ice protection systems.
Since we both develop and apply numerical simulation tools, we have a deep understanding of which solution is best for a specific situation. 2D analysis still has much to offer, mainly due to its speed, but 3D capability is vital to allow analysis of more complex geometries and flows. The key to obtaining accurate results is in understanding the capability and limitations of the applied method. Our staff have decades of experience in this area, allowing us to be able to recommend (and apply) the best method for your particular case, minimising both time and cost.
AeroTex participates in code development and comparison exercises with other key icing organisations, allowing us to benchmark our tools against other offerings and, crucially, stay current with new methods so that our simulation tools remain state-of-the-art.
2D Analysis
TAC2 and IHB
Trajectory and Catch (for the prediction of water droplet trajectories and the resulting surface water collection efficiency on multi-element aerofoils (2D calculation)) and Icing Heat Balance, for the calculation of ice growth rates on the surface, and hence the resulting ice shape. Can also be used for the initial sizing of heating power requirements for anti-ice systems (2D calculation)
ET3D
Electrothermal 3D, for the prediction of thermal transients and icing response (growth and shedding) in a multi-layered structure with embedded heater elements (1D, 2D or 3D) – most often utilised in 2D mode. Able to simulate anit-ice and de-ice systems
3D Analysis
TAC3D+
Trajectory and Catch for 3D, enhanced functionality, has been developed under the OpenFOAM framework and allows droplet trajectories and collection efficiency to be calculated on generic 3D geometries
IHB3D
An extension to IHB, IHB3D allows ice shapes to be calculated on generic 3D bodies