Numerical Simulation of MHD Flow Behavior and Performance in the Disk MHD Generator of Closed Loop Experimental Facility

Abstract

R-z two dimensional numerical simulation with a large eddy simulation (LES) model has been carried out in order to clarify, for the first time, the typical MHD flow behavior and the performance of the disk MHD generator installed in the new closed loop experimental facility at Tokyo Institute of Technology. The results show thick separated flow regions in the generator channel both for non-MHD flow and MHD flow. The separated region influences the MHD interaction because of its low electrical conductivity. The MHD flow streamlines, however, tend to widen in the generator channel, with reduction of thickness of non-MHD flow separation. The typical performance of the generator have been predicted for several load resistances and seed fractions. The study is important to prepare as better as possible and to assure the success of the future MHD power generation experiment.