Numerical analysis of forces in an electrostatic levitation unit

This paper presents the results of the numerical simulation of an electrostatic levitation device. The algorithm based on the Boundary and Finite Element Methods, and the Method of Characteristics was employed to predict the electric field and space charge density. The commercial FLUENT software was used to calculate the airflow. Three major factors: the Coulomb, viscous drag and pressure forces have been investigated. The levitation net force (thrust) has been calculated for different applied voltages, distances between the electrodes and shapes of the ground electrode. The simulation results not only seem to confirm the feasibility of the idea of the electrostatic levitating unit but also provide guidelines for designing the lifter.