Multiphysics Analysis for Thermal Management of Electromagnetic Launchers a Coupled Electromagnetic and Thermal Problem with Pulsating Heat Generation

• Other Authors: Zhao, Han (authoraut)
• Format: Others
• Language: English; English
• Published: Florida State University
• Subjects: Mechanical engineering
• Online Access: http://purl.flvc.org/fsu/fd/FSU_migr_etd-7262

An electromagnetic launcher is a device used to accelerate projectiles at velocities exceeding those attained with conventional propelling systems. A magnetic field is generated when current is sent through two conductive rails that are connected by a moving armature. The current that passes through the rails exerts an electromagnetic force on the armature and causes it to accelerate to high speeds. In this work, a three-dimensional model for coupled thermal and electromagnetic solution of the launch process is presented. The model accounts for the determination of the current and temperature profiles inside the rails, the magnetic force, and the projectile movement. Focus is given to the thermal management after the shot. For a single shot scenario, five different axial cooling arrangements, one without cooling and four with cooling channels, are studied. A 50% reduction in the peak temperature was obtained with the inclusion of cooling channels. For multiple-shot scenario, two selected cooling arrangements are studied and compared. Results show that by moving the cooling channels towards the hotter corners, a better cooling performance could be obtained. A vertical cooling arrangement is also considered. The temperature distributions after the cooling period for three different channel configurations are compared. A heat reversal phenomenon that observed for long rails is discussed. These analysis and comparisons provide some directions to optimize the cooling design of EML rail conductors. === A Dissertation submitted to the Department of Mechanical Engineering in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. === Summer Semester, 2011. === June 17, 2011. === Includes bibliographical references. === Juan C. Ordonez, Professor Directing Dissertation; Simon Y. Foo, University Representative; Ching-Jen Chen, Committee Member; Ongi Englander, Committee Member.