Most trucks are fitted with spoilers and fairings, to reduce the drag, for efficient use of the fuel. These fitted devices are often a menace when it comes to loading as they have to sometimes be removed. The speed ranges that are compatible with the spoilers, are also called into question, as at a certain speed, the device can prove ineffective and instead contribute to the drag. This increases the weight of the vehicle, and has a direct impact on fuel consumption.

Pranay Bajjuri, co-founder of Plasma Stream Technologies in Bettendorf, Iowa, and his colleagues are working on a way to use plasma to reduce the drag in trucks instead. The trucks would be made more aerodynamic after being fitted with plasma actuators in place of spoilers and fairings. This plasma actuators is essentially two copper plates with a layer of Teflon between them. The plasma actuators produces charged plasma on passing a current through them, affecting airflow. Flow separation is when the airflow detaches from the vehicle’s surface and becomes turbulent, producing drag. The actuators delay this flow separation. Turn on and off can be regulated as needed, by a speed sensor.

Actuators cost about $2,500 per truck and provides 15% savings in terms of fuel. They don’t have to be detached while loading either, and are compatible with all speed ranges. The added effect is the faint purple glow of the plasma. Which, you ask me, is an added advantage at night, and could maybe eliminate the need for headlights with a stronger glow.

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Author:Technology Blog