Measuring efficiency of positive and negative ionic wind devices for comparison to fans and blowers

Many industries are pursuing alternate air moving devices to reduce the power consumption of their air cooled products. The literature suggests that ionic AMDs have low efficiency. The literature, however, does not define efficiency the same way the computer industry defines it for rotary AMDs. In this study, static efficiency of ionic AMDs was evaluated similar to rotary AMDs. Various emitter to collector distances and various ring lengths, were evaluated for positive and negative coronas. By controlling emitter to collector distance and collector length, efficiencies were obtained more reasonably compared to rotary devices.

► In this study, the efficiency of an ionic air moving device was optimized. ► Static efficiency was reported consistent with electronics cooling industry practices. ► Static efficiency was shown to reach a peak at an optimal emitter to collector distance. ► Static efficiency was shown to reach a peak at an optimal cylindrical collector length. ► Static efficiency is argued to be a better metric for efficiency than dynamic.