Electromagnetic Environment Analysis of MHD Propulsion by Surfaces in Sea Water

Abstract

Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) propulsion by surfaces is performed through electromagnetic propulsion units mounted on navigations surface in conductive flow fluid (such as seawater or plasma), by which Lorentz force will be generated to propel the near-wall seawater and the navigation. Lorentz force has been used to adjust the flow boundary layer around the cylinder and airfoil. In this study, based on the basic governing equations of fluid dynamics and electromagnetic field, by utilizing finite volume methods, the distribution characteristics of electric and magnetic fields near the propulsion units have been investigated in seawater environment. The results show that the electric and magnetic fields over the surface of the propulsion units rapidly decrease with the normal wall distance. This method can offer a better electromagnetic security.