Mechanism of Electromagnetic Flow Control Enhanced by Electro-Discharge in Water

Pulsed discharge utilized to achieve large current density in the electromagnetic flow control is numerically studied. A mathematic discharge model is established to calculate the plasma channel, and an actuator is designed to generate the Lorentz force in the micro plasma channel. During the discharge process, the resistance in the channel decreases rapidly and a large current density appears between the discharge electrodes. After the actuator is applied in the leading edge of a flat plate, the separation region and downstream turbulent boundary layer on the plate disappear. Meanwhile, a skin-friction drag force reduction is achieved.