Calculation of Electrohydraulic Shockwaves Based on Improved Arc Impedance Model

The intensity of the shockwave generated by the high-current pulse discharge in the liquid is mainly determined by the deposited energy during the accelerated expansion stage of the arc plasma channel. Under the same discharge condition, there is randomness in the shape of the arc channel. Generally, longer arc channels have larger impedance, which can obtain more energy and generate stronger shockwaves. In this article, a comprehensive test platform for high-current pulse discharge in liquid was established; the voltage, current, and far-field shockwaves were measured; and the development images of the arc channel were taken. Considering the influence of temperature, channel expansion, and radiant energy, a calculation method of electrohydraulic shockwaves based on the improved arc impedance model was established. The initial values and parameters of the model were selected by comparison with the test results to ensure their accuracy. The arc channel current, time-varying resistance, deposition energy, and far-field shockwaves were calculated and compared with the test results to verify the rationality of the model. The calculation of electrohydraulic shockwaves based on the improved arc impedance model can provide theoretical guidance for optimizing the industrial application of shockwaves.