Sensitivity analysis and optimization of hypersonic inlet performance subject to magnetohydrodynamic effects

This research considers the effects of Magneto-Hydro-Dynamic (MHD) source terms on the optimization of a scramjet inlet to recover the total pressure and increase the mass capture. A representative case is found by determining the optimal inlet configuration for the inviscid case assuming no MHD source. This is a simplified look into the optimization of the two ramp inlet say to a supersonic scramjet engine. The value function being optimized is the mass weighted pressure loss at the throat of a double ramp inlet such that the pressure drop through the inlet is minimized. Possible ways of increasing the mass capture for a cowl style inlet under hypersonic flow conditions by employing a variable magnetic field as well as changing ramp angles is investigated. The optimal inlet configuration is determined allowing for the presence of the charged flow through this magnetic field. A thorough comparison to demonstrate the effects of the MHD source on the flow is carried out for the two inlet configurations and the representative simulation results are summarized.