Optimization of outer core to reduce end effect of annular linear induction electromagnetic pump in prototype Generation-IV sodium-cooled fast reactor

Abstract

An annular linear induction electromagnetic pump (ALIP) which has a developed pressure of 0.76 bar and a flow rate of 100 L/min is designed to analysis end effect which is main problem to use ALIP in thermohydraulic system of the prototype generation-IV sodium-cooled fast reactor (PGSFR). Because there is no moving part which is directly in contact with the liquid, such as the impeller of a mechanical pump, an ALIP is one of the best options for transporting sodium, considering the high temperature and reactivity of liquid sodium. For the analysis of an ALIP, some of the most important characteristics are the electromagnetic properties such as the magnetic field, current density, and the Lorentz force. These electromagnetic properties not only affect the performance of an ALIP, but they additionally influence the end effect. The end effect is caused by distortion to the electromagnetic field at both ends of an ALIP, influencing both the flow stability and developed pressure. The electromagnetic field distribution in an ALIP is analyzed in this study by solving Maxwell's equations and using numerical analysis. (C) 2019 Korean Nuclear Society, Published by Elsevier Korea LLC.