Performance of DBD Actuator Models under Various Operating Parameters and Modifications to Improve Them

Simulation is a valuable tool for the study of DBD actuators, therefore accurate, computationally efficient, and robust numerical models are required. The performance of three DBD actuator models was studied: the phenomenological Shyy and Suzen models, and the empirical Dörr and Kloker model. The first objective of this work is to determine the ability of these models to reproduce the force and induced flow by comparing the numerical results with experimental reference data reported in the literature. As a second objective, modifications have been proposed to improve these models. Several simulations were performed in OpenFOAM with different geometrical parameters, voltages, and frequencies. Discrepancies and limitations of the models were identified. The modified Dörr and Kloker model allows more consistent use of this model by considering a factor that relates it to voltage and frequency. Shyy’s modified model reduces the overestimation of force and velocity. Suzen’s modified model is the one that fits the reference data better, so its use is suggested over the other models. The proposed modifications are easy to implement and allow significant improvements in the capacity of the models to reproduce the effects of a DBD actuator.