Numerical Study of the Magnetorotational Instability in Princeton MRI Experiment

TL;DR

This paper uses detailed simulations to study the nonlinear behavior of magnetorotational instability in a liquid metal experiment, revealing key dynamics and boundary effects.

Contribution

It provides the first non-ideal axisymmetric MHD simulations of MRI in the Princeton experiment geometry with realistic boundary conditions.

Findings

MRI causes a midplane jet and increased angular momentum transport.

Reduced linear growth rate observed in simulations.

Simulations inform experimental design and interpretation.

Abstract

In preparation for an experimental study of magnetorotational instability (MRI) in liquid metal, we present non-ideal axisymmetric magnetohydrodynamic simulations of the nonlinear evolution of MRI in the experimental geometry. The simulations adopt fully insulating boundary conditions. No-slip conditions are imposed at the cylinders. A clear linear phase is observed with reduced linear growth rate. MRI results in an inflowing "jet" near the midplane and enhances the angular momentum transport at saturation.