Gasdynamic structure of the initial region of a supersonic plasma jet from a magnetoplasmadynamic source

Gasdynamic, electric-probe, and optical measurements were made on the initial regions of supersonic plasma jets of argon and helium flowing from a magnetoplasmadynamic source into a rarefied medium. The plasma source consisted of a tungsten cathode and a coaxial pyrolytic graphite anode-nozzle separated by a neutral insert. A magnetic coil and a magnetic circuit were used to create a magnetic field in the MPD device. The gasdynamic structure of the plasma jets was studied as a function of the type of gas, the pressure in the ambient medium, the induction of the external magnetic field, the enthalpy of the drag, and the flow rate and mode of gas supply.