Basics of magnetohydrodynamics

Abstract

In the present work the basic principles of a MHD channel are described through the development of a simulation and the interpretation of its results. The MHD channel is modeled through the Euler conservation equations for a two dimensional flow. The approximation describes the interaction between a partially ionized Argon plasma with an electromagnetic field, through the approach of considering the union of the different species into a unique flow. The MacCormack numerical method is described and used with an appropriated grid transformation in order to solve the proposed model in a two dimensional domain, viewed as a longitudinal section of divergent channel. In addition, a discretization technique for the generalized Ohm’s law is described and used together with the MacCormack method. The accelerator and generator operating modes are described through the simulation results of a linear Faraday type MHD channel. The profiles of flow properties, potential distribution, current density, push power density and electric power density in the steady state, are calculated in different initial conditions, in order to discuss the effect of its variation in terms of total efficient power, total consumed power and global efficiency. In order to overcome the model limitations found during its construction and using steps, a particle model is described in order to expand its validity range.