Prototypic magnetohydrodynamic anode designs and test results

Abstract

The design description and design rationale for the anode electrodes of the integrated topping cycle (ITC) magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) power generator are reviewed. This generator was part of a 50-MW t prototypic power train that recently completed proof-of-concept (POC) duration testing at a U.S. government MHD test facility. The conditions of the anode wall after undergoing design verification and POC tests are described. Anode confirmation test results are also reported. These confirmation tests were carried out prior to the actual fabrication of the ITC MHD generator. These tests showed that in addition to the anode design that was selected for the MHD generator, several alternative designs also demonstrated excellent lifetime projections.