Electrical charging of engines in the efflux of combustion products. Experimental results

The electrical charging of jet engines during efflux of combustion products is studied. Measurements are made of the electrical current beyond the exit section of a nozzle as a function of such parameters as the characteristic length of the space charge region, the electrical potential of the engine, and the pressure of the surrounding medium. Possible practical applications of the results (estimating the charging current and the rate of rise and maximum value of the potential on a flight vehicle) are discussed. Zh. Tekh. Fiz. 69, 55–59 (August 1999)