An electromagnetic and thermodynamic lumped parameter model of an explosively driven regenerative magnetohydrodynamic generator

Summary form only given. The authors have developed a simple, yet accurate, lumped-parameter mathematical model for an explosively driven self-excited magnetohydrodynamic generator that can predict the pulse power variables of voltage and current from startup through regenerative operation. The inputs to the model will be the properties of plasma as it enters the generator. The strategy used was to simplify electromagnetic and thermodynamic three-dimensional effects into a zero-dimensional model. The model is based on fundamental physical principles and parameters that were either obtained directly from design data or estimated from experimental data. The model has been validated using reported experimental data. It has been used to obtain parameter sensitivities and identify process limitations that provide direction for future research.