Suitable for advanced undergraduates and graduate students in engineering, this text introduces the concepts of plasma physics and magnetohydrodynamics from a physical viewpoint. The first section of the three-part treatment deals mainly with the properties of ionized gases in magnetic and electric fields, essentially following the microscopic viewpoint. An introduction surveys the concepts of ionized gases and plasmas, together with a variety of magnetohydrodynamic regimes. A review of electromagnetic field theory follows, including motion of an individual charged particle and derivations of drift motions and adiabatic invariants. Additional topics include kinetic theory, derivation of electrical conductivity, development of statistical mechanics, radiation from plasma, and plasma wave motion. Part II addresses the macroscopic motion of electrically conducting compressible fluids: magnetohydrodynamic approximations; description of macroscopic fluid motions; magnetohydrodynamic channel flow; methods of estimating channel-flow behavior; and treatment of magnetohydrodynamic boundary layers. Part III draws upon the material developed in previous sections to explore applications of magnetohydrodynamics. The text concludes with a series of problems that reinforce the teachings of all three parts.

This book is an introductory text on magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) - the study of the interaction of magnetic fields and conducting fluids.

Magnetohydrodynamic Electrical Power Generation Hugo K. Messerle University of Sydney, Australia The global demand for energy continues to grow. Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) conversion processes offer a highly efficient, clean and direct conversion of energy for power generation and propulsion. By converting the kinetic energy of a flowing fluid into electricity directly, MHD systems help address the problems of environmental pollution. At the same time MHD is particularly suitable for primary energy sources or fuels providing energy at temperatures extending far beyond those manageable by any conventional thermal conversion plant. It therefore offers a potentially more effective utilisation of fossil and nuclear fuels. The author covers all aspects of MHD power generation, including the design and operation of MHD conversion systems in practice. Features include: A comprehensive introduction to the principles behind the interaction of magnetic field and electric currents with electrically conducting fluids in the conversion of energy. Coverage of all aspects of generator configurations, as well as the disk generator, multi-phase converters, and propulsion systems. Study of the design for AC power generation, covering the control and power conditioning of the generator and the integration of such designs into existing power systems. Study of the use of MHD plant as part of a topping cycle combined with a steam and/or gas turbine or ternary cycle potentially leading to combined cycle efficiencies of up to 60%. Relevant worked examples in each chapter to assist the reader with self-study and the understanding of the topic. This text will appeal to advanced students in power engineering, physics and mechanics. Practising engineers and scientists is the field of power technology will find if an excellent practical reference and a basis for developing ideas on large scale MHD processes. Magnetohydrodynamic Electrical Power Generation forms a part of the Energy Engineering Learning Package. This innovative distance learning package has been established to train power engineers to meet today’s and tomorrow’s challenges in this exciting field. Organised by a team of distinguished, international academics, the modular course is aimed at advanced undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as power engineers working in industry. World Solar Summit Process

The book deals with the theme of incompressible flows of electrically conducting fluids in hydraulic components. The main content of the book is a result of engineering research associated with the design of liquid metal cooling systems for fusion reactors. The book is well suited to serve as a guide for utilising magnetohydrodynamic means in other engineering disciplines such as in material processing, metallurgical engineering and power engineering.

This book revises the evolution of ideas in various branches of magnetohydrodynamics (astrophysics, earth and solar dynamos, pinch, MHD turbulence and liquid metals) and reviews current trends and challenges. Uniquely, it contains the review articles on the development of the subject by pioneers in the field as well as leading experts, not just in one, but in various branches of magnetohydrodynamics, such as liquid metals, astrophysics, dynamo and pinch.