Abstract

The paper surveys the contemporary state of investigations of liquid metal with MHD energy conversion as well as possible further development in this field. 

In the first part the basic types (separation-, condensation-, emulsion flow- and slug flow systems) are characterized. Various modifications of the aforesaid systems aiming at improving their thermal efficiency are described as e.g, the application of the two-component system, the heat recovery, multi-stage arrangements, partial separation system etc.

In the second part the main problems of the d.c. and a.c. MHD generators and problems connected with the liquid phase-acceleration are discussed. Particular attention is paid to phenomena stemming from the non-equilibrium during the expansion of the two-phase medium, to problems of separating the gaseous and liquid. componęnts of the working medium and to losses in the condensing injector. In conclusion, some important experimental stands are described in brief.

As follows from the analysis, in the studied field a considerable success has been achieved, but not all basic problems have been solved yet. What a trend will be followed in the further development, which is at present difficult to provide for this will to a great extent depend on the progress to be achieved in developing new thermal energy sources, especially new nuclear fast reactors.