Computational MHD Applications?
 

Hi all

I'm just wondering what kind of applications exist for Computational Magnetohydrodynamics. I can think of Solar Wind at least, but there must be others. I happened to learn that aeronautical institutes or industries are studying MHD, but don't know exactly why. When/Where do we need MHD? Can anyone give me a hint?

Thank you

Re: Computational MHD Applications?
 

I think Ken Powell at the University of Michigan, also together with Van Leer do MHD. Maybe you will find some information there. The lab is called Keck laboratory http://www.engin.umich.edu/dept/aero...ities/CFD.html

Frank

Re: Computational MHD Applications?
 

I remember that Bruce A. Finlayson from chemical engineering dept at university of Washington gave us a seminar about Ferrofluid modeling. If Ferrofluid is also kind of MHD, you might check his web to see some information.

Re: Computational MHD Applications?
 

If I am not mistaken, nuclear fusion, which is still in its experimental stage, makes use of the idea of keeping the very hot plasma (which would otherwise melt the reactor walls) inside a 'magnetic bottle'. Computational MHD is used in 'designing' this magnetic bottle.

Re: Computational MHD Applications?
 

Perhaps 15 years ago, power generation firms in the US, including the Tennessee Valley Authority, were looking at MHD as a means of increasing the efficiency of coal-burning power plants. The idea was to generate high combustion temperatures, ionizing the combustion gases, running them through a magnetic field and tapping the power from that. As the hot plasma cooled and lost its charge, it was run through a 'conventional' boiler or gas turbine to generate more power. In addition to higher efficieny, more complete combustion and better control of polluting emmissions were promised with this scheme.

I recall that high corrosion and fouling rates made the scheme unattractive.

I think the US Department of Energy still has a lab in West Virginia (?) that is working on these ideas.

Re: Computational MHD Applications?
 

MHD is applied to optimize several mettalurgical processes, such as aluminium electrolysis, electromagnetic pumping etc.

Re: Computational MHD Applications?
 

Now I can use those key words you mentioned to search more infomation.

Thank you! Joe