Experimental investigation of the current density distribution in a simulated MHD generator.
Abstract
In a magnetohydrodynamic generator with segmented electrodes, the Hall effect prevents a homogeneous current distribution in the region of the electrodes. The results of calculations of the current density distribution in an inert gas alkali metal plasma using simplifying assumptions were compared with measurements made in a simulated argon-potassium generator. The gas in the generator channel had a temperature of about 2000°K and a pressure of 1.1 atm. The potassium content was 0.22% by weight. The gas velocity did not exceed 130 m/sec and the magnetic-field strength was held below 4500 gauss. The emf was simulated by applying an electric field of about 15 v across each electrode pair. Measurements of the intensity distribution of the potassium resonance lines permitted conclusions to be drawn with respect to the distribution of electron temperature and thus current density. In general, qualitative agreement with theory was found. The most pronounced deviation from theory occurred near the electrodes, particularly along the insulator between electrodes. The potential distribution measured along the insulator wall was consistent with light-intensity measurements.
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