CFD analysis of a Piccolo tube anti-icing system: Effects of jet inclination, flow interaction, and material selection

When an aircraft flies at high altitudes through clouds in sub-zero temperatures, water droplets in the air condense on the airfoil and freeze. Ice formation on the wings increases drag, reduces lift, which ultimately disrupts airflow, even at low angles of attack. One of the most effective methods in anti-icing of wings is the use of hot air extracted from the engine compressor. This study provides a systematic investigation of jet inclination angle as an independent design parameter in Piccolo-tube anti-icing systems, along with the effects of multi-jet interaction and internal cavity recirculation on thermal performance. The thermal performance under dry-air conditions was evaluated, with no supercooled droplet impingement, runback, or ice accretion included. Additionally, a comparative analysis of cover materials was conducted to evaluate their influence on heat distribution and efficiency. Critical factors in spray angle selection were identified, aiming for adequate thermal coverage across the airfoil's leading edge by choosing optimal distances between spraying zones. Various spray angles (0°, 30°, 45°, and 60°) were examined, revealing that 0° and 60° spray angles at a distance of 5 cm achieved wider thermal coverage compared to others.