Active Sensors/Actuators-Based Flow and Noise Control for Aerospace Applications

The present work introduces a method for flow and noise control using plasma actuation. The Single Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma Actuator (SDBDPA) device is object of study. A discussion of potential applications in flow and noise control in aerospace field is initially done. Then experimental results on separation control applications are presented. The investigated SDBDPA was manufactured by means of photolithographic technique. Particular attention was paid in materials selection because of possible degradation in plasma environment. The device separation control authority was investigated locating it on a curved plate with a shape designed to reproduce the suction surface of a low pressure turbine (LPT) rotor blade. The changes in the device performances with aging were quantified by monitoring in time the actuator power consumption. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images on the new and used device were also used to complement the investigation.