AC Plasma Anemometer for Hypersonic Mach Number Experiments

Tech ID: 0295

Inventor: Dr. Thomas Corke

Date Added: August 22, 2019

Overview

An advanced plasma anemometer with an amplitude-modulated output for measuring high speed flows.

Technology Summary

In recent years there has been a renewed interest in obtaining measurements of high speed, high enthalpy flows where high-bandwidth sensitivity to mass-flux is desirable. Some solutions exist to measure the high speed flowfield but these devices are rather cumbersome, not practical, limited in frequency acquisition, or they do not resist the intense heat generated in high speed flow.

University of Notre Dame researchers have developed an advanced plasma anemometer with an amplitude-modulated output that has excellent common-mode rejection, is insensitive to temperature variations, and operates across a myriad of different pressures. Some example uses for the advanced plasma anemometer are to understand mechanisms of stability and transition to turbulence caused by high speed boundary layer, to understand high-speed flows in compressors and turbines, and to understand and monitor combustion instability in gas turbine engines.

Market Advantages 

  • Frequency response from 1MHz to 10MHz
  • Output not sensitive to temperatures
  • Robust and easy to set up
  • Operates with constant current feedback

Technology Readiness Status

TRL 5 - Prototype Developed

Intellectual Property

US Patent 7,275,013 (Plasma Anemometer and Method for Using Same)

Publication

AC Plasma Anemometer for Hypersonic Mach Number Experiments
doi: 10.2514/6.2006-1245

Contact

Richard Cox

rcox4@nd.edu

574.631.5158