Accession Number:

AD0744520

Title:

The Momentum Equation to Describe the Dynamics of Electric Arcs,

Descriptive Note:

Corporate Author:

AEROSPACE RESEARCH LABS WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB OHIO

Personal Author(s):

• Schrade,Herbert O.

Report Date:

1972-05-01

Pagination or Media Count:

63.0

Abstract:

Based on the momentum equation, a three dimensional, self consistent analysis is presented which may lead to a better qualitative and quantitative understanding of the dynamics of electric arc discharges exposed to arbitrary flow and magnetic fields. By balancing the gasdynamic surface stress force per unit arc length with the corresponding force of the Maxwells stress, one is able to derive an analytical expression for the resultant momentum-transport between a curved, current-carrying column, and its nonconducting surrounding gas. This momentum-transport per unit time and arc length represents a propelling andor friction force which determines the arc motion with respect to the outer gas. Stable arc modes and the principle of arc dynamics are discussed by means of a few examples constituting an arc in a transverse flow and a transverse magnetic field. Author

Descriptors:

• (*ELECTRIC ARCS
• *MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMICS)
• GAS DISCHARGES
• PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS
• DISTRIBUTION FUNCTIONS
• EQUATIONS OF MOTION
• ELECTRON DENSITY
• IONS
• NUMERICAL ANALYSIS

Subject Categories:

• Electricity and Magnetism
• Plasma Physics and Magnetohydrodynamics

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE