Electrostatic Charging of the CH-53E Helicopter
Abstract
We have measured the effects of electrostatic charging on the CH-53E helicopter. Measurements were made over a clean runway and over sandy terrain in basically desert conditions where electrostatic charging is known to be a problem. While the measured charging current (up to approx. 75 microAmp) and open circuit voltages (up to approx. 140 kV) cannot be claimed as maximum values attainable by the CH-53E, they show that the CH-53E is affected by electrostatic charging in much the same way as all other helicopters. Furthermore the range of data recorded in these tests has allowed us to formulate a model for the electrostatic charging of a hovering helicopter in both 'clean air' and 'sandy air' situations. This model is consistent with our own data and recorded prior experience with electrostatic charging of helicopters. The model confirms that electrostatic charging depends on many parameters none of which can be controlled under normal operating conditions, thus the quantitative effects of electrostatic charging - the short circuit and the open circuit voltage - are very variable. It also predicts that the CH-53E can readily attain short circuit currents of approx. 300 microAmp and open circuit voltages of approx. 400 kV. Keywords: High voltage and static discharges.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 29, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA161936
Entities
People
- Donald P. Murphy
- J. Spelz
- Joseph R. Greig
- R. E. Pechacek
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory