Steady Bi-dimensional Crossflow Plasma Jets in Turbulent Channel Flows

In this study, the possibility of reducing the friction drag exerted by turbulent flows by means of wall-mounted plasma actuators is experimentally investigated. Two large plasma actuators (PAs) arrays were operated in a channel-flow facility. They were conceived to replicate, the flow control approach investigated by Mahfoze and Laizet (Int J Heat Fluid Flow 66:83–94, 2017) by means of numerical simulations. Namely, steady and relatively largely spaced (378 wall units) actuators were lain down such to induce stationary crossflow-directed fluid motions. Different actuation parameters (actuators’ configurations and supplied voltages) and flow Reynolds numbers were tested. Flow static pressure measurements were performed along with the actuators mechanical and electrical characterization. The resulting values of drag manipulation and actuation efficiency are reported. The tested flow actuation led to overall higher values of flow friction drag, whereas values overcoming the value of 30% of drag reduction were measured at the more downstream actuation positions. The discrepancy with the above reference is deemed to be mainly due to the finite flow actuation hereby considered. Nevertheless, a slightly different Reynolds number was here considered while the actuators effect was measured to be considerably weaker.