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Electrohydrodynamic (EHD) heat transfer enhancement is a technology that may yield substantial reductions in heat exchanger weight and volume, as well as “on-demand” heat transfer. An overall assessment of the applicability of EHD to aircraft systems is given and key areas for future investigation to enable application are identified. A brief review of the underlying physics and key factors for the application of EHD to an aircraft Environmental Control System (ECS) is given. The major engineering challenges involved in application of EHD to an aircraft system are discussed. Potential system impacts of an EHD-enhanced ECS heat exchanger are explored.

Electrohydrodynamic (EHD) forces acting on a fluid can be used to significantly increase the heat transfer coefficient with little power consumption or flow restriction. Experiments have shown promising results with simple configurations, but practical heat exchanger development is needed. Analytical development will establish design equations and aid in experimental data correlation. Small scale test units will provide experience in determining heat exchanger configurations and electrode options. Controller and high voltage power supply units will also need to be developed. Full-scale EHD heat exchanger systems can then be developed to demonstrate technology availability for military and commercial products.