Liquid metal MHD channel flow: optimization principles and benchmark problems

S. I. Sidorenkov - I. R. Kirillov - I. A. Evtushenko

D. V. Efremov Institute of Electrophysical Apparatus, St. Petersburg, Russia

Abstract
The special algorithm and the computer code for different subcodes (MHD, Heat Transfer, Stress Analysis, etc.) integrating into one optimising process to provide recommendations for design geometry and coolant parameters within given design window, requirements, and criteria are developed. As an example the algorithm is applied to a poloidal flow design, where the most critical part is the front zone of the blanket - poloidal flow ducts facing the neutron and heat flux from the tokamak plasma. At this stage of investigation the following integral parts of the code were involved in the process of optimisation:- calculations of the 2-D velocity distribution and pressure drop of a fully developed laminar MHD flow in a straight rectangular channel; - calculations of the temperature distribution in the coolant and walls based on a given surface heat flux and calculated volumetric heat generation and liquid metal velocity distribution; -first wall stress analysis.Several factors of optimization were considered and analyzed. Some approximate analytical formulas for optimal cooling channel width are obtained. Figs 3, Refs 5.