Which power sources may supply an anti-ice/de-ice system?

• A. Bleed air, electrical, or fuel/heat.
• B. Solar panels.
• C. Hydraulic pressure.
• D. Battery only.

Answer: (A)

Powering anti-ice and de-ice functions can come from several energy sources depending on the system design. The common options are bleed air, electrical power, or fuel heat.

Bleed air is hot air drawn from the engine that is routed through ducts to the leading edges of wings, tail surfaces, and nacelles to prevent ice formation or to shed ice. It’s reliable and widely used on many airliners because it provides substantial heating capacity.

Electrical anti-ice uses electric heating elements embedded in surfaces such as wing leading edges or windscreens. This method is effective where bleed air isn’t practical or as a supplement, and it avoids diverting engine air flows.

Fuel/heat systems heat surfaces by circulating fuel through heat exchangers to provide warmth for anti-ice purposes. This approach can avoid additional bleed air or electrical power demands and is used in some aircraft configurations.

Solar panels aren’t used as a practical power source for anti-ice on aircraft, and hydraulic pressure isn’t typically a primary power source for anti-ice systems. A battery alone generally doesn’t supply the full capability required for primary anti-ice functions, though it may power small electrical components.