Use of MHD generators in nuclear power engineering

The paper gives the main features of the processes in magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) generators and power installations equipped with such generators and the results of the theoretical and experimental investigations of the open and closed cycle MHD systems (in particular the U-02 and U-25 facilities) that have confirmed both qualitatively and quantitatively the efficiency of MHD and formed the grounds for its possible application in nuclear power engineering. The paper states that MHD may be used in nuclear power installations operating with liquid metal two-phase flow having homogeneous and piston-like structures, equilibrium and non-equilibrium plasma, in nuclear systems with solid fuel and gas-phase reactors and also in thermonuclear fusion installations of various types. On the basis of the scheme analysis of a great number of liquid metal systems, of both homogeneous and two-phase flow types, it was found that they had limited prospects - mainly for transport applications. The most preferable installations of this type are ones that have highly developed heat regeneration and use induction methods of electric power extraction. The paper points out that it is possible to develop effective MHD installations operated with solid fuel reactors only if the problem of non-equilibrium ionization at temperature levels of 1500-17000C, defined both by the reactor design features and the material properties, is settled. When combined with gas-phase (gaseous nuclear fuel) reactors, MHD generators become much more promising for nuclear power engineering. Higher plasma temperatures obtained in a gas-phase reactor (e.g. up to 10,0000C) make it possible to increase the plasma conductivity substantially (up to 100-250S/m). The parameters of a nuclear MHD installation operated on uranium hexafluoride plasma are given as an example. This installation employs the Rankine cycle and as a result the design and scheme of the installation are simplified. (author)