Computational Fluid Dynamics Modeling for Electrically Conducting Flows

The solution of the 3D unsteady Navier-Stokes fluid mechanics equations, coupled to the Maxwell’s equations for electrical propagation, is being conducted utilizing an innovative Multi-Physics Simulation (MPS) Architecture. The MPS Architecture provides efficient resolution of a key technical problem that arises in the formulation of numerical solution schemes for these coupled equation sets, namely the definition of the solution grid space by: (1) enabling utilization of overlapping/non-overlapping grids; (2) dynamic and adaptive grid development to achieve adequate grid resolution both spatially and temporally to capture the flowfield features; (3) implements hybrid structured and/or unstructured grids, as appropriate; and, (4) optimal selection of individual numerical algorithms for fluid dynamic and Maxwell’s equation sets to resolve numerical stiffness arising out of widely disparate time-scales. The MPS architecture incorporates state-of-the-art solution techniques from computational electromagnetics, as well as intelligent processor control for domain decomposition among multi-processors. The numerical developments are based on the framework of a well-tested and extensively validated, time-accurate, three-dimensional, finite-volume, structured and unstructured grid, Reynolds-averaged, Navier-Stokes flowfield solution methodology that includes detailed models for two- and three-phase gas/particle/liquid droplet flows, and generalized finite-rate chemical kinetics. The new model will be applicable to magnetohydrodynamics, electrohydrodynamics and Radar Cross Section predictions.