Fowler Associates Labs

Response to Aircraft Question
by Jeremy Smallwood
www.static-sol.com

Aircraft charge up as they fly around, due to impact with dust particles and other materials in the air. The voltage can build up to very high levels. As in most static electricity cases, the build-up limit occurs when the rate of discharge by various means , equals the charging rate.

A key discharge mechanism for aircraft is corona discharge from sharp edges. However, if uncontrolled, this leads to electromagnetic interference "static" to the aircraft systems. So, aircraft are fitted with intentional corona discharge points to promote corona discharge under controlled conditions. These points are often known as "wicks".