Optimization and Testing of DC Electromagnetic Pump for Liquid Metal Space Use

Abstract

Driving a liquid metal via an electromagnetic pump (EMP) is becoming increasingly important with its many emerging cutting-edge uses. The end losses associated with the EMP generally play a core role in dominating device performance. In this study, we explored the effects of electrode width, number of insulating strips, and pump width on the end loss through theoretical analysis and numerical simulations. The optimization results indicate that reducing electrode width would improve EMP performance. Adding insulation strips enhances the magnitude and uniformity of effective current density but raises hydraulic losses. A smaller pump width achieves a stronger static head, while a larger pump width outputs a higher flow rate. Furthermore, 3D printing technology was employed for rapid integrated processing of the pump body. Detailed performance evaluations and reliability tests were carried out on the EMP. With the design optimized so as to minimize the end losses, an EMP for space experiments has been successfully developed, which will eventually be flown on the China’s space station. Overall, the feasibility of fast, low-cost manufacturing of high-reliability, compact EMP with the assistance of numerical simulation and 3D printing technology was demonstrated. It provides an alternative option for driving metallic fluid for various future space needs.