MHD pressure drop characteristics in a three-surface-multi-layered channel under a strong magnetic field

A three-surface-multi-layered channel is one of the possible methods for reducing the magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) pressure drop in a Li/V blanket. In this study, experimental and numerical evaluations of the liquid metal MHD flow in a three-surface-multi-layered channel were conducted to confirm the extent of MHD pressure reduction in the channel. The MHD flow was tested using a Bi–Sn eutectic alloy (MHD liquid) and an open annular channel under up to 5 T magnetic field. Experimentally determined pressure drops differed from those predicted by numerical analysis. This may be as a result of an increase in the friction force caused by an oxide appearing on the liquid free surface and a decrease in the electromagnetic force owing to the formation of a contact resistance between the Bi–Sn alloy and the bottom wall of the stainless steel channel.