THEORY OF ELECTRIC ARCS WITH RADIAL MASS INFLOW.
Abstract
In order to determine the applicability of a single-component approach to the problem of an arc with radial mass inflow, a detailed discussion of the basic electrodynamic and gasdynamic equations is presented. Appropriate comparisons among the nondimensionalized parameters allow one to make certain simplifications for low Mach numbers. The results indicate that specific dimensionless quantities appear which characterize the operating range for this type of arc. For a laminar, stable, rotationally-symmetric arc with uniform radial mass inflow, an exact numerical solution is made which is then compared with a particular model theory. This model theory assumes that the gas density and viscosity are known as functions of the radius and the boundary conditions at the tube wall. Good agreement is found between the numerical solution and the model theory. One also concludes that radial mass inflow can remarkably reduce the heat flux to the walls thus leading to higher axis temperature for the same electric power input. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1969
- Accession Number
- AD0687862
Entities
People
- Herbert Druxes
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory