Augmentor Screech Instability Control through Directed Plasma Discharge Navy STTR FY2014.A Sol No.: Navy STTR FY2014.A Topic No.: N14A-T004 Topic Title: Augmentor Screech Instability Control through Directed Plasma Discharge Proposal No.: N14A-004-0313 Firm: Knite Inc. 18 West Piper Avenue Suite 201 Ewing, New Jersey 08628 Contact: Ephraim Gutmark Phone: (513) 556-1227 Web Site: www.knite.com Abstract: Directed plasma discharge using Knite Inc.'s Kinetic Spark Ignition (KSI) hardware is proposed as a means to quell augmentor screech tone. Contrary to typical plasma ignitors, where plasma discharge is between anode and cathode, the KSI can discharge plasma into the flow in a reproducible manner. This controllability was used successfully on projects to improve performance of igniters and is also key to its potential as an active combustion control (ACC) actuator. Moreover, the KSI system could potentially be the augmentor ignitor and also its ACC actuator. Tests will take place at the University of Cincinnati, in partnership with Dr. Ephraim Gutmark's research group, which has extensive experience in augmentor tests and thermoacoustic instabilities. Phase I consists of a proof-of-concept tests which evaluate the ability of the KSI system to periodically affect a flame. Two KSI actuators will run in open-loop at various frequencies and duty cycles. Plasma will act directly on the reaction zone or on secondary fuel streams to increase its impact. Phase I Option will fine-tune the setup, attempt simple closed-loop control, and begin design activity to move testing to the augmentor rig, including attempting ACC with the KSI installed at the typical ignitor location. Benefits: Tests of the Knite KSI system have demonstrated combustor and augmentor ignition performance benefits relative to conventional military engine ignition systems. As a result, the Knite technology affords a clear benefit to the warfighter if applied to the fleet. However, if KSI is also able to act as an ACC actuator, this dual functionality would significantly enhance its value to the engine designer and, ultimately, the warfighter thereby further increasing motivation to develop a KSI based product for DoD applications. While its ACC actuator aspect is mostly limited to augmentors, which are primarily military applications, this research can have significantly broader indirect implications for the KSI technology in other markets. With the initial implementation, KSI goes from a `proven technology' to `fielded product' this change in status significantly reduces KSI's barrier to entry in other markets. Return