Ionization of Air in a Ranque–Hilsch Vortex Tube and the Method of Obtaining Uni- and Bipolar Ionization

• Published in: Journal of engineering physics and thermophysics 2015-11, Vol.88 (6), p.1476-1482
• Main Authors: Lebedinskii, K. V., Kurnosov, N. E., Nikolotov, A. A., Alekseev, D. P.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Analysis; Classical Mechanics; Complex Systems; Engineering; Engineering Thermodynamics; Heat and Mass Transfer; Industrial Chemistry/Chemical Engineering; Ionization; Magnetic fields; Methods; Thermodynamics
• ISSN: 1062-0125; 1573-871X
• DOI: 10.1007/s10891-015-1333-0

Results of investigations on determining the principles of ionization in a Ranque–Hilsch vortex tube have been given. The existing principles of ionization and the possibilities for them to occur in a Ranque–Hilsch vortex tube have been considered. Conclusions based on an analysis of ionization methods have been drawn. With the aim of establishing processes occurring in the vortex tube, the authors have developed a procedure, have identified the goal and objectives of testing, have created a test bench, and have conducted experimental investigations on the physical prototype of a vortex tube. Testing results have been given in the form of plots. An analysis of the results has been made, and conclusions have been drawn. On the basis of the conducted investigations, the authors have proposed a novel method of ionization of air and control over the parameters of uni- and bipolar ionization. A diagram of the device developed for air ionization has been presented.