Electrostatic Theory Applied to Helicopter Discharging,
Abstract
An electrostatic analysis is made of a hovering vehicle out of electrical contact with the ground. Charging of the vehicle is seen to be accomplished by a variety of mechanisms. Engine exhausts are strongly ionized; and, since they are physically localized at the stack(s), can be modulated to produce vehicle charging. Strong charging can result from the frictional contact of dust, ice, or water particles with the vehicle skin; and the processes of conduction and diffusion will operate to remove net charge from any isolated object. The electrostatics of an isolated body above a ground plane are reviewed and developed. The dynamics of the discharge process are next addressed. In the process of summarizing the results presented, several possible solutions to the grounding problem are suggested. All rely on establishing initial ground contact through a controlled non-zero resistive path in order to limit the magnitude and steepness of the current discharge pulse. Upon accomplishment of this initial attachment, existing grounding techniques may be profitably employed. It is suggested that existing specifications and procedures be assessed to determine their usefulness in the light of this analysis.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADP002209
Entities
People
- R. V. Anderson
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory