TY - GEN
T1 - Operational characteristics of a plasma torch in a supersonic cross flow
AU - Kuo, S. P.
AU - Bivolaru, Daniel
AU - Carter, Campbell D.
AU - Jacobsen, Lance
AU - Williams, Skip
PY - 2003
Y1 - 2003
N2 - Application of torch plasma, which is intended as an ignition aid within a scramjet engine, is studied. The plasma jet generated by a torch module is described by detailing the voltage-current characteristics and through imaging of its plume in a quiescent environment and in a supersonic crossflow. This torch system, with its high voltage discharge, can be operated in periodic (60-Hz) or pulsed modes, depending on the power supply used. In the 60-Hz mode, the capacitors are charged at the line frequency of 60 Hz, resulting in a cyclical discharge. In this mode, the cycle energy is up to 25 J. However, this energy is mainly limited by the power handling capability of the power supply. In the pulsed mode, the torch can deliver up to 100 J in each pulse. Within the Mach-2.5 supersonic flow, which approximates the scramjet-engine startup condition, the penetration height and the volume of torch plume into the crossflow vs. gas supply pressure and plasma energy are determined.
AB - Application of torch plasma, which is intended as an ignition aid within a scramjet engine, is studied. The plasma jet generated by a torch module is described by detailing the voltage-current characteristics and through imaging of its plume in a quiescent environment and in a supersonic crossflow. This torch system, with its high voltage discharge, can be operated in periodic (60-Hz) or pulsed modes, depending on the power supply used. In the 60-Hz mode, the capacitors are charged at the line frequency of 60 Hz, resulting in a cyclical discharge. In this mode, the cycle energy is up to 25 J. However, this energy is mainly limited by the power handling capability of the power supply. In the pulsed mode, the torch can deliver up to 100 J in each pulse. Within the Mach-2.5 supersonic flow, which approximates the scramjet-engine startup condition, the penetration height and the volume of torch plume into the crossflow vs. gas supply pressure and plasma energy are determined.
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M3 - Conference contribution
AN - SCOPUS:33144474739
SN - 9781624100994
T3 - 41st Aerospace Sciences Meeting and Exhibit
BT - 41st Aerospace Sciences Meeting and Exhibit
T2 - 41st Aerospace Sciences Meeting and Exhibit 2003
Y2 - 6 January 2003 through 9 January 2003
ER -