Analysis of Simulated Aircraft Lightning Strikes and Their Electromagnetic Effects
Abstract
To survive the intense electromagnetic fields associated with a lightning strike, proper design of aircraft electrical control systems requires knowledge of the transient current pulse associated with a lightning strike. This report summarizes in-house testing of low-level (less than 20 kA) current pulses on a 32-foot long aluminum cylinder simulating an aircraft fuselage. The test circuit consists of a capacitor bank, the aluminum cylinder and a coaxial return path of 16 wires that reconnects the end of the cylinder to the capacitor bank. Areas of investigation included magnetic field mapping along various areas of the cylinder, with and without access panels, as well as different panel materials. The effects on circuits internal to the cylinder are also evaluated. Using a magnetic field loop sensor, three-dimensional magnetic field plots are generated that depict how the magnetic field along the surface of the cylinder is distorted when it approaches an opening (access panel removed) along the surface of the cylinder. These plots identity the critical locations of the peak magnetic fields. Diffusion effects are also evaluated as the opening is relocated toward the end of the cylinder. Finally, induced currents on circuits internal to the cylinder are recorded and measured.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA388234
Entities
People
- Daniel L. Schweickart
- Gary L. Webb
- James M. Gruden
- John C. Horwath
- Lawrence C. Walko
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory