DETAILED PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF THE MARK V SELF-EXCITED ROCKET DRIVEN MHD GENERATOR
Abstract
A rocket-driven self-excited MHD generator designed for a net power output of 20,000 kilowatts has been tested. The generator was designed to demonstrate the feasibility of using an MHD device to provide power at very high levels with relatively simple equipment. This report describes the generator and the testing program performed to study the characteristics of self-excitation and the combined operation of self-excitation and power output. The initial test period was devoted to achieving self-excitation which is described together with the major problems involved. The stress is placed on the effect of L di/dt, loading, control of battery bank and test firing point, together with end effects experienced in the channel. After obtaining sufficient knowledge of the self-excitation and the control thereof, the major effort was concentrated on the production of net power output. The dynamics of the generator working fluid are discussed, together with the effects of various loadings of the generator. The transverse voltage distributions on the channel, together with the axial voltage and Hall voltage measurements taken, and their influence on generator performance, are presented. Power and current density and their variation are shown with power and magnet current relationships. Significant results of the generator testing program were the production of a new power of 23,600 kilowatts with a gross power output of 32,000 kilowatts.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0474639