Deicing improvements

The old deicing chemical storage tanks are scheduled to be replaced by an improved, refueling station by winter, Oct. 2, 2013, Ramstein Air Base, Germany. The new facility features a drive-thru style approach for vehicles to refill deicing vehicles back to capacity, a larger area designed to reduce congestion, an automated filling station to prevent environmental contaminations and safe working conditions for Airmen while refilling. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Jordan Castelan)

Deicing improvements

The new deicing refueling station is set to replace the current system, Oct. 2, 2013, Ramstein Air Base, Germany. The new facility features a drive-thru style approach for vehicles to refill deicing vehicles back to capacity, a larger area designed to reduce congestion, an automated filling station to prevent environmental contaminations and safe working conditions for Airmen while refilling. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Jordan Castelan)

Future deicing facility to improve mission capabilities

Published Oct. 11, 2013
By Airman 1st Class Jordan Castelan
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany -- Ramstein aircraft deicing operators will have enhanced capabilities when servicing aircraft this winter after the installation of a more efficiently designed deicing chemical refueling facility.

The new facility will increase fluid storage capacity, operator safety and the ability for deicing vehicles to turn around. It will also lower vehicle congestion and reduce risk of environmental damage.

"This facility alleviates load time and no longer requires Airmen climbing on top of a deicer to refuel during hazardous winter conditions," said Master Sgt. Michael Bagley, 721st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron aircraft support flight supervisor.

Airmen safety was a priority during the design of the new facility. Procedures to produce the correct mixtures of chemicals as well as environmental concerns caused by spills and overfill also have been improved by the facility.

"New pumps feature an automated mixture system to ensure the correct amount of chemicals are combined and pumped into the vehicles," said Bagley. "The pumps will also have features to prevent major spills and overflows when refilling a deicing vehicle's tank."

Adapters required to previously fill vehicles will also be eliminated. Turnaround times of vehicles will also be enhanced with a newly designed drive through system for operators.

"With the removal of the old system that required a fire hydrant and adapters to refuel a tank, operators can more effectively and safely complete their mission," said Master Sgt. Anthony Strong, 721st AMXS support flight NCO in charge. "With the improvements to our winter capabilities, we can only expect Ramstein's mission of providing combat airlifts and operate the Air Force's premier installation to enable and ensure strategic capabilities will be enhanced."