3D MHD free surface fluid flow simulation based on magnetic-field induction equations

The purpose of this paper is to present our recent efforts on 3D MHD model development and our results based on the technique derived from induced-magnetic-field equations. Two important features are utilized in our numerical method to obtain convergent solutions. First, a penalty factor is introduced in order to force the local divergence free condition of the magnetic fields. The second is that we extend the insulating wall thickness to ensure that the induced magnetic field at its boundaries is null. These simulation results for lithium film free surface flows under NSTX outboard mid-plane magnetic field configurations have shown that 3D MHD effects from a surface normal field gradient cause return currents to interact with surface normal fields and produce unfavorable MHD forces. This leads to a substantial change in flow pattern and a reduction in flow velocity, with most of the flow spilling over one side of the chute. These critical phenomena can not be revealed by 2D models. Additionally, a design which overcomes these undesired flow characteristics is obtained.