Initial experimental tests on space trips facility of thermoacoustic-to-mhd energy converter

A. Brēķis^{1, 2} - J. E. Freibergs¹ - A. Alemany³

¹ Institute of Physics of the University of Latvia, 32 Miera str., Salaspils, Latvia
² Faculty of Power and Electrical Engineering, Riga Technical University, 12/1 Azenes str., Riga, Latvia
³ SIMAP/EPM, Domaine Universitaire, BP 75 -- 38402 Saint Martin d'Heres, France

Abstract
Thermoacoustic-to-MHD energy conversion is a potential key technology for energy production in deep Space, due to the absence of moving mechanical parts or electrical contacts [1]. This technology has been developed by a team of scientists from different institutes and companies from France, Italy, Latvia and Germany. Experimental results of the prototype built at the Institute of Physics, University of Latvia, are presented in this paper. It summarizes the results of several TAc-alone experimental sessions, indicating the required temperature difference and working gas mean pressure. These are the necessary parameters needed for the induction of acoustic power. The paper also discusses the operational experience gained in a preliminary water simulation for the MHD-alone experiment. Tables 1, Figs 15, Refs 5.