Simulation study of AC arc in aviation based on COMSOL

With the advancement of aircraft electrification, the number and complexity of aviation cables continue to increase, and thei r health status plays a crucial role in ensuring the safe and stable operation of aircraft electrical systems. However, existin g simulation studies on AC arc in multiphysics fields often overlook the unique characteristics of the aviation environment, especially the impact of the open and specialized voltage conditions. In this research, we focus on the fundamental physical properties of AC arc and develop a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) model specifically tailored for aviation electrical systems, taking into account their distinct operating conditions (Open space, AC voltage amplitude 230V, AC voltage frequency 360Hz~800Hz). AC arc, as a form of plasma, is analyzed using COMSOL Multiphysics to simulate multiphysics fields, enabling a better understanding of the complex physical processes involved. The simulations investigate the distribution of thermal, flow, and electric fields under aviation voltage conditions, as well as the relationship between arc current and vol tage. By observing the initial arc ignition times at different voltage frequencies, it is found that there is a delay in the onset of arcing as frequency increases. These findings provide valuable insights for further analysis of the mechanisms behind AC arcs in aviation systems.