ELECTRIC ARC DISCHARGES IN TRANSVERSE MAGNETIC FIELDS. PART I,
Abstract
The dynamic behavior of electric arc discharge columns, which are subjected to transverse external magnetic fields, was studied through an analysis of all the forces acting normal to a segment of the arc column. This analysis led to an explanation of 'magnetic arc pumping' which was found to be the cause of arc retrograde motion as well as the discontinuous motion of electrode attachment points. It is shown that a gasdynamic force is generated through the combined action of the self-induced magnetic field of a current-carrying plasma and of a superimposed external magnetic field. This force opposes the Lorentz force generated by the external field; it is the reaction force of a hydromagnetically induced transverse gas flow which is generated within the current-carrying channel. Arc pumping and associated phenomena may also occur in the absence of an external magnetic field if the arc column is curved. This is explained by the fact that the distribution of Lorentz forces on a curved arc column is comparable to that on a straight arc column in a transverse magnetic field. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0658459
Entities
People
- Herbert O. Schrade
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory