Piezoelectric actuator for pulsating jets

Recent researches in aeronautics showed that fluidic actuator systems could offer possibilities for drag reduction and lift improvement. To this end many actuator types were designed. This paper deals with the design, fabrication and test of piezoelectric actuator in order to generate pulsated jets normal to a surface and control air flow separation. It is based on the flexural displacement of a rectangular metal plate clamped on one of its large edge. Piezoelectric patches cemented on the plate were used for driving into vibration the actuator. Experimental measurements show that pulsed flow velocities are adjustable from 1.5m/s to 35m/s through a 100x1mm2 slit andwithin a 100 to 400 Hz frequency range. Prototype provides the jet performances classically required for active control flow.