Electrode Loss Mechanisms in MHD Generators.
Abstract
The principal voltage loss mechanisms in the MHD generator can be divided into two classes, ohmic and sheath losses. Ohmic drops are those that occur because of the finite conductivity of a real plasma; thermal boundary layers, degree of ionization and Joule heating are factors affecting the Ohmic resistivity of the plasma. Sheath drops occur as a result of Debye shielding near the electrode surfaces and can be handled separately from the boundary layer. These phenomena were studied with emphasis on the sheath. It was concluded that these effects can be assigned to the boundary layers, and a simplified technique for determining boundary layer losses was developed. A two-dimensional model for the electrode region has evolved, incorporating the sheath and ambipolar regions. Current, electric field, and energy equations are being studied as they apply to the model. Results are presented.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADA015393
Entities
People
- Oscar Biblarz
- R. C. Dolson
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School