Research Studies and the Development of MHD Generators and Accelerators
Abstract
The report presents the results of the LORHO Pilot Program undertaken to evaluate the potentiality of MHD generator-accelerator units for hypersonic wind tunnel drive. Basic features of matched MHD generator-accelerators are discussed, including especially operating voltage as related to gas conductivity, electric and magnetic field strength, and accelerator discharge stagnation pressure. These conditions lead to the choice of a high-voltage single-circuit output Hall configuration MHD generator coupled to a diagonally connected MHD accelerator fed with gas from a separately driven arc heater. A power level of 20,000 KW was chosen for the LORHO Pilot. Design details of the generator and accelerator are given, along with a detailed description of generator performance and the comparison of that performance with analysis. The generator delivered a maximum output of 18,000 KW and provided a convincing demonstration of the utility of MHD for the present application. The accelerator has not been operated. Methods of uprating the performance of the MHD generator to levels as high as 100,000 KW output are discussed. A brief description of the over-all LORHO Pilot facility is provided.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1970
- Accession Number
- AD0863990
Entities
People
- J. Teno
- S. W. Petty
- T. R. Brogan