Hypersonic vehicle MHD power extraction concept utilizing Mach stem thermal ionization

Christopher M. Limbach, Mikhail Shneider, Richard B. Miles

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

We present an initial analysis of on a new MHD power extraction device for reentry vehicles that provides significant energy extraction at speeds of Mach 10 and below. Lower Mach number operation is accomplished by creating a strong normal shock inside a duct which heats alkali seed material to ionization temperatures. The design consists of a convergent inlet followed by an interior channel. The compression ramp angle is chosen such that a normal shock, or Mach stem, is formed near the throat. Inside the duct a Faraday generator extracts energy through aerodynamic electrode fins. The Navier-Stokes equations were solved for this geometric configuration in combination with a one dimensional MHD generator model for operation at 20km, 30km and 40km altitude and Mach 8 or 10. Results indicate that over 1MW/m may be generated with a nominal 50cm high inlet at Mach 10.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication42nd AIAA Plasmadynamics and Lasers Conference
PublisherAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Inc.
ISBN (Print)9781624101472
DOIs
StatePublished - 2011
Event42nd AIAA Plasmadynamics and Lasers Conference 2011 - Honolulu, HI, United States
Duration: Jun 27 2011Jun 30 2011

Publication series

Name42nd AIAA Plasmadynamics and Lasers Conference

Other

Other42nd AIAA Plasmadynamics and Lasers Conference 2011
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityHonolulu, HI
Period6/27/116/30/11

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics

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