Electronic edition ISSN 1574-0579

Effect of thin electroconductive side walls on the performance of an ideal flat linear induction pump

L. Goldšteins^1, - L. Buligins^1, - O. Mikanovskis^1,2

¹ Institute of Physics University of Latvia, 32 Miera str., Salaspils-1, LV-2169, Latvia
² Faculty of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics, Riga Technical University, 6B Kipsala, Riga, LV-1048, Latvia

Abstract
A theoretical model incorporating thin-wall boundary conditions has been developed to quantify the influence of electroconductive side walls on the performance of the ideal flat linear induction pump (FLIP). The derived expression for the integral pumping force is consistent with the established theory, whereas a pressure coefficient is introduced that depends on the wall conductance ratio. For a slip magnetic Reynolds number below unity, the increasing wall conductance produces more uniform current and force distributions leading to the higher total force. The increased wall conductance may induce demagnetization effects and decrease the total force when the slip magnetic Reynolds number exceeds unity. This study highlights and quantifies the significant role of side-wall conductivity, revealing opportunities for improved pressure generation and enabling more efficient designs of permanent-magnet FLIPs with a small number of poles. Figs 11, Refs 6.