Experimental Two-Phase Liquid-Metal Magnetohydrodynamic Generator Program.
Abstract
Extensive data on the contoured generator has been taken which corroborates the very preliminary data reported previously. Detailed experimental parametric studies were completed which mapped generator performance as a function of mixture quality, magnetic field, and generator loading. Turbine efficiencies of 50% have been achieved for the first-generation contoured generator. The experimental data, coupled with theoretical analyses and modeling, however, has shown conclusively that an electrical shunt exists within the generator. Extensive data has also been taken on the generator with constant cross-sectional inserts; similar results were obtained. Several possible causes for the electrical shunt were identified. In order to identify and isolate the principal electrical shunt, the following steps were taken: The generator was redesigned and rebuilt to completely eliminate leakage and thus the shunt behind the insulator wall; a gas-cleaning system and a micropore NaK filter was installed to minimize the amount of gas impurities that could enter the test facility and remove any oxides as soon as they are formed. These steps were successfully carried out and a new series of performance runs are planned. As the testing proceeds, we will be able to separate the effects of the mechanical and fluid boundary-layer-type shunts. Control of the boundary-layer shunt will be accomplished with a gas injection system. (Modified author abstract)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1973
- Accession Number
- AD0766588
Entities
People
- J. C. Cutting
- L. C. Pittenger
- Renee E. Cole
- W. E. Amend
Organizations
- Argonne National Laboratory