Hydrodynamics and electrical insulation of PbLi flow with SiC flow channel inserts in a strong magnetic field

Experimental and numerical research in a strong magnetic field is described in this article testing silicon carbide (SiC) flow channel inserts (FCI) in lead-lithium (PbLi) liquid metal flow. The study aims to further develop the High-Temperature Dual-Coolant Lead-Lithium nuclear fusion blanket concept by testing new variations of SiC inserts operating in the relevant electromagnetic conditions. These inserts act as electrical insulators in magnetohydrodynamic lead-lithium flow and can also play the role of the thermal insulator in the potentially real fusion environment. The liquid metal pressure and integral flowrate measurements were performed on up to 5T DC magnetic field created by a superconducting magnet at high temperatures up to 700 degrees C, which is close to the real fusion environment. Comparisons of several cases with and without inserts are provided, demonstrating their impact on hydraulic resistance. Additionally, electrical potential distribution is recorded on the leadlithium channel walls, which can be used to evaluate the character of liquid metal velocity distribution in the lead-lithium channel.

Automated summary

This article describes experimental and numerical research conducted in a strong magnetic field to test silicon carbide (SiC) flow channel inserts (FCI) in lead-lithium (PbLi) liquid metal flow. The study aims to further develop the High-Temperature Dual-Coolant Lead-Lithium nuclear fusion blanket concept by testing new variations of SiC inserts under relevant electromagnetic conditions. The results show the impact of the inserts on hydraulic resistance and the distribution of electrical potential in the lead-lithium channel.