Using infrared instead of antifreeze to de-ice planes

17 Jun 2002

(AP) Next to the runway at the Rochester airport stands a colossal, open-ended hangar with heaters hanging from the ceiling. It's a place where ice-laden jets can warm up on a chilly winter's day. Using infrared heat instead of antifreeze, the InfraTek drive-through system cuts de-icing costs by more than 90 percent, co-designer John Chew said Tuesday at its first tryout on a full-size jet.

The experimental method might also, one day, rid airports of hazardous, de-icing chemicals, he said. In winter, airports spray planes with chemical de-icers, mainly glycol, to remove ice before takeoff. That can cost about $3,500 for each jet, while the infrared system does the same job for less than $250, Chew said.

Airports also have come under pressure from environmental agencies to contain chemical de-icers so they don't pollute water and sewer systems. Using infrared heat wouldn't leave behind any toxic residue. The infrared system could be in place at airports next winter if airlines decide to invest and the Federal Aviation Administration gives the go-ahead.