Status of “TITAN” Task 1–3 “Flow Control and Thermofluid Modeling”

We review current accomplishments and ongoing work in Task 1–3 “Flow Control and Thermofluid Modeling” of the US-JAPAN “TITAN” Program. This encompasses construction of a new MHD lead–lithium loop at UCLA and planning, preparation and pre-experimental analysis for first experiments, including tests of high-temperature ultrasound Doppler velocimeter and studies of the behavior and electroinsulating properties of the foam-based silicon carbide flow channel insert in the flowing liquid metal in a magnetic field. First results of magnetohydrodynamic experiments on flow transitions from 3D to 2D are also presented and discussed.

► Current accomplishments and ongoing work in Task 1–3 “Flow Control and Thermofluid Modeling” of the US-Japan “TITAN” Program have been reviewed. ► A new MHD lead–lithium loop at UCLA has been constructed and tested. ► Pre-experimental analysis and flow diagnosing with ultrasound Doppler velocimeter have been initiated. ► Experiments on 3D to 2D transitions in MHD duct flows have been performed. ► Pre-experimental analysis for testing silicon carbide foam-based flow channel insert has been performed.