Posted for "Jack Cowell" <jcowell@nyc.rr.com>:

Carl-

The Therma-Wing system (NASA-tested and partially NASA-funded
electrically-heated leading edge panels and prop blades) is progressing well
albeit slower than they'd like.

The alternator, heater panels and computer controller have all been through
multiple development stages and should complete final flight tests next
month. Everything has performed as designed in the NASA icing tunnel and on
the bench.  But, as we all know all too well, the test bench ain't the same
as the aircraft.

As you may remember, their prototype heaters and energy delivery system were
tunnel tested on a Lancair Columbia wing section and the single engine
prototype aircraft is a IVP.  With a little luck and some favorable weather
(it's been much too cold in the Cleveland area to find any ice for weeks),
the system should be flight tested and finalized in March.  It may also be
on display at Sun 'n Fun in April along with the DC-powered air conditioning
system that the new second alternator makes practicable.

Too bad their de-icing system has been so long in coming, but the
indications are that the end result will be worth the wait. In other words,
it works.

By the way, regarding your icing experience, the NASA test pilots who have
done literally thousands of hours of lab and flight testing on this system
and icing in general ALL believe that ANY de-icing system is at best a
"get=out-of-jail" card.  Their advice is when you see ice, execute the
deviation plan you already had formulated.  We all have one of those after
hearing the FSS icing forecasts, right?  This is particularly true in the
case of freezing rain which can overpower ANY system including those of
airliners.  So rather than wait around wondering if the kind of ice that is
accumulating is lethal, their message is "When you see it, take action right
away to GET OUT OF
IT." Climb, descend, turn around, but take immediate action or have an
iron-clad reason not to deviate.  That, these wise and very accomplished
pilots say, is the ONLY WAY TO DEAL WITH ICE.

Fly safely.