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Title: Numerical simulation study on fluid dynamics of plasma window using argon

Journal Article · · Physics of Plasmas
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.4813249· OSTI ID:22227989
; ; ;  [1];  [2]; ; ;  [3]
  1. State Key Laboratory of Nuclear Physics and Technology, Peking University, Beijing 100871 (China)
  2. Brookhaven National Laboratory, New York 11973-5000 (United States)
  3. Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Science, Lanzhou 730000 (China)

In this paper, a numerical 2D FLUENT-based magneto-hydrodynamic model has been developed to investigate the arc and flow field of plasma window, which is used as a windowless vacuum sealing device. The gas inlet, arc creation-developing and plasma expansion segments are all incorporated together in the integral model. An axis-symmetry cathode structure (hollow cathode) is used in the model. Current distribution of the arc is presented and discussed. The temperature, velocity, and pressure field are presented to show the physical mechanisms for the high pressure gap within the plasma window. Flow acceleration and viscosity effect are concluded as the main reasons for the pressure drop. The result for the pressure distribution in the cylindrical tube section has a good agreement with the analytical model. The validation for the sealing ability of plasma window is verified.

OSTI ID:
22227989
Journal Information:
Physics of Plasmas, Vol. 20, Issue 7; Other Information: (c) 2013 AIP Publishing LLC; Country of input: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); ISSN 1070-664X
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English