Investigation of flow separation control by nanosecond pulsed dielectric barrier discharge actuators

The ability of nanosecond pulsed dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) actuators to control flow separation was investigated on a NACA (National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics) 0015 profile for velocities up to 24 m/s (Re = 230,000). The optimal location for the actuator was determined from oil flow experiments. Moderate voltage levels were applied (3 and 6 kV) and the actuator was operated at frequencies ranging from 0.058 to 10 kHz in pulse and burst modes. The peak effectiveness of the actuator occurred at reduced frequency values of around 1. Plasma influence was observed at all tested angles of attack (up to 26°) and the stall angle was delayed by 8°