Computer modeling of space charge flow in an electrogasdynamic generator
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Authors
Bohley, Carl Martin
Subjects
Advisors
Biblarz, Oscar
Date of Issue
1972-06
Date
Publisher
Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School
Language
en_US
Abstract
In an electrogasdynamic (EGD) generator the flow of a neutral medium
carrying unipolar electrical charges constitutes an electrical current.
A model of the charge flow in an EGD generator was constructed for use
in a computer program. The program is designed to solve Poisson's and
Laplace's equations for both axi symmetric and two-dimensional geometries.
Schlieren photographs of the charge cloud were used to determine the
charge cloud profile required by the program. Computer generated predictions
agreed with three known solutions to Poisson's equation.
Computer predictions of the effects of space charge flow modification
were obtained. Space charge flow was modified both by increasing flow
speed and by manipulating the space charge electric field. Experimentally,
this was accomplished by increasing flow stagnation pressure and by
application of 'a separate controllable electric field. Experimental
results compare favorably with computer predictions. Some measurements
were also made of the mobility range of the charged particles.
Type
Thesis