A high enthalpy plasma generator for entry heating simulation

Abstract

joules/kg (l3O,OOO Btu/lb), has a variety of applications, the most important probably being the simulation of entry heating from interplane- tary missions. Within a Constricted-Arc Supersonic Jet apparatus, a super- sonic nozzle with an elongated throat, or arc constrictor, a direct-current arc and a longitudinal flow of gas are maintained. The working fluid, which may be air or any other gas, is heated as it passes near the arc, becomes electrically conductive and eventually becomes a part of the arc core. The arc core temperature is maintained by current flow while the gas passes through the supersonic nozzle into the test section. Ames Research Center has built and tested several configurations of the Constricted-Arc Supersonic Jet, the largest of which operates at a power input of