Numerical analysis of acceleration obtained from pulsed-linear-MHD accelerator using model rocket engine

Abstract

To improve the thrust efficiency of a pulsed magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) accelerator, we perform numerical calculations that simulate the experimental conditions, which were used earlier, in an apparatus that include a model rocket engine. The one-fluid one-dimensional-MHD simulation results show agreement between the experimental and numerical results. We discuss simulation results for temporal and spatial distributions of the electrical conductivity and current density. © 2014 The Japan Society of Plasma Science and Nuclear Fusion Research.