A Liquid Metal Flume for Free Surface Magnetohydrodynamic Experiments

Nornberg, M.D. ; Ji, H. ; Peterson, J.L. ; Rhoads, J.R.

Princeton University. Plasma Physics Laboratory.

关键词: Magnetic Fields;    Liquid Metals;    Oxides;    70 Plasma Physics And Fusion Technology;    Oxygen;   

DOI  :  10.2172/938980
RP-ID  :  PPPL-4345
RP-ID  :  DE-ACO2-76CHO3073
RP-ID  :  938980

美国|英语

来源: UNT Digital Library

【 摘 要 】

We present an experiment designed to study magnetohydrodynamic effects in free-surface channel flow. The wide aspect ratio channel (the width to height ratio is about 15) is completely enclosed in an inert atmosphere to prevent oxidization of the liquid metal. A custom-designed pump reduces entrainment of oxygen, which was found to be a problem with standard centrifugal and gear pumps. Laser Doppler Velocimetry experiments characterize velocity profiles of the flow. Various flow constraints mitigate secondary circulation and end effects on the flow. Measurements of the wave propagation characteristics in the liquid metal demonstrate the surfactant effect of surface oxides and the damping of fluctuations by a cross-channel magnetic field.