Carburettor Icing

Carburettor icing occurs when the temperature of air entering the carburettor drops sufficiently to condense water vapour, causing ice to build up on the butterfly valve and venturi walls. It can occur in clear air with no visible moisture and an outside air temperature of up to 38°C, particularly at partial power settings. The risk is significantly increased during descent when partial power is used.

Key Points

• •Caused by temperature drops in the carburettor due to the venturi effect and fuel evaporation.
• •Can occur in clear air without visible moisture, even at outside air temperatures of up to 38°C.
• •Risk is significantly increased at partial power settings, such as during descent.
• •Carburettor heat should be applied at the first sign of icing or when conditions favour its formation.

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