Pitot Tube and Wind Tunnel Studies of the Flow Induced by a One Atmosphere Uniform Glow Discharge Plasma (OAUGDP) Actuator

Abstract

Summary form only given. The field of plasma aerodynamics is of growing interest, particularly boundary layer control and flow acceleration by paraelectric and peristaltic plasma actuators. In this paper, we will present the results from Pitot tube velocity profile measurements and smoke flow visualization tests conducted in the 7 × 31 low speed wind tunnel at NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA. We will present measurements of the flow fields associated with paraelectric, peristaltic, and a combination of both paraelectric and peristaltic plasma actuators. In the latter case, the paraelectric effect adds to the plasma flow velocity induced by the peristaltic electrostatic traveling wave. We will also present results of our recent development program to build a low cost power supply to energize plasma actuator configurations for both paraelectric and peristaltic flow acceleration. The power supply consists of inexpensive automotive ignition coil transformers, audio amplifiers, and a DC battery. Using this power supply system, plasma actuators were energized at voltages between 2 and 8 kV, at frequencies between 0.5 and 8 kHz. This paper will also present experimental data on paraelectric and peristaltic flow velocities obtained using this economical power supply