Dynamic simulation of a magnetohydrodynamic liquid-metal direct-current generator

A mathematical model for a proposed magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) liquid-metal experimental loop was developed. The purpose of the experiment was to demonstrate the capability of an MHD, DC generator to produce 20 kW of electric power by directly converting thermal to electrical energy. Basic principles and semiempirical formulae were used in the development of the mathematical model. A computer simulation program was written for the above model using the CSMP-III simulation language. A dynamic analysis of the MHD liquid metal loop was then performed. The proposed experimental loop was found unstable. By adding a high-gain proportional controller to regulate the primary flow, the system response characteristics was changed, and it was found to be stable over a wide range of operating conditions.