Title: Numerical modelling of supersonic flow actuated by laser-induced plasma

Authors: Guillaume Dufour; Bruno Fornet; François Rogier

Addresses: ONERA-CT, 31055 Toulouse, France. ' ONERA-CT, 31055 Toulouse, France; Nucletudes, CS 70117, 91978 Courtaboeuf cedex, France. ' ONERA-CT, 31055 Toulouse, France

Abstract: In the last decade, a large theoretical and experimental works has been performed to conceive new devices able to reduce significantly the pressure drag of supersonic vehicles. Energy deposition by laser induced plasma seems one of the most promising ideas to modify the flow structure at high Mach number today. This work aims to study the energy deposition effects of a laser induced plasma column past a body and more specifically to estimate the energy transfer from the plasma to the flow. A model describing the flow and the plasma is proposed and analysed. The model is applied to the simulation of a cylindrical laser induced plasma energy deposition in a supersonic flow past a body. Results show the dynamic of the action of the plasma to the flow and demonstrate the potential effects on supersonic flow control. An analysis of the energy balance between power supply and consumption is also provided.

Keywords: flow control; supersonic flow; drag reduction; plasma actuators; laser induced plasma; numerical simulation; modelling; aerodynamics; supersonic vehicles; flow structure; high Mach number; power supply; power consumption.

DOI: 10.1504/IJAD.2013.050924

International Journal of Aerodynamics, 2013 Vol.3 No.1/2/3, pp.122 - 134

Published online: 28 Feb 2014 *

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