The Effect of Particle Aggregation on Flow Characteristics and Efficiency of an Energy Conversion Device with a Magnetic Fluid

Using an energy conversion device with a magnetic fluid susceptible to temperature in a nonuniform magnetic field, the effects of particle aggregation in the magnetic fluid on the flow characteristics and effciency of the device are investigated experimentally and theoretically. The experimental data showing the effects of the strength and direction of the magnetic field and temperature difference on pressure difference and efficiency are compared. These experimental data are compared with the theoretical results by taking into account the particle aggregation, assuming one-dimensional flow. By estimating not only the magnetic pressure but also the hydrodynamic drag deu to the increment of apparent viscosity by applying the magnetic fields to the device, the effects of the aggregation on the flow characteristics and efficiency are elucidated.