Control of air micro-jets by the use of dielectric barrier discharges

Abstract

In this study, we used dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma actuators to control and pulse two-dimensional free air micro-jets at low Reynolds numbers (Re < 200), avoiding the use of mobile and mechanical devices such as valves. We performed experimental measurements and visualizations to characterize the effect of different DBD burst frequencies (1-80 Hz) and different DBD applied voltages, on both the external and internal flows. The total flow rate (including entrainment) was determined by PIV experiments. Preliminary results show an increase in the flow rate (20%) and a promising and effective method to pulse micro-jets at these frequencies.