VORTEX MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMIC GENERATOR EXPERIMENTAL TEST PROGRAM
Abstract
A vortex type magnetohydrodynamic generator was designed and fabricated on the basis of currently available materials, and was tested to determine the feasibility of obtaining electric power from a seeded combustion gas. The combustion gas was oxygen-hydrogen, seeded with potassium hydroxide solution. A power output of 0.15 watts was obtained from a vortex channel which was 4 inches wide with a magnetic field strength of 4000 gauss. The gas flow rate varied from 0.4 to 0.7 pounds per minute. This result compares with a theoretical output of 29 to 60 watts which was calculated by digital computer methods. The low output was due to material failures throughout the unit and particularly of the combustion chamber and the center electrode. Th study program indicated that the small vortex MHD generator has a significant potential provided that the material problems can be solved, whether through the e of lower ionization temperature fluids or higher temperature materials. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0284164
Entities
People
- H.g. Starck