Publications Details

Improved Solver Settings for 3D Exploding Wire Simulations in ALEGRA

Doney, Robert; Siefert, Christopher S.; Niederhaus, John H.

We are interested in simulating a variety of problems in 3 dimensions (3D) featuring large electric currents. While 2D simulations have been quite informative, cylindrical symmetry may interfere with a problem’s relevant physics. Specifically, all objects in the domain behave as if they are extruded 360°—turning particles into hoops. In dealing with electrical current, this can have serious ramifications on the current pathways. In 3D (r, φ, z) currents can adjust their pathways anywhere along those 360 degrees given the right conditions; however, in 2D (r, z) those pathways can be completely choked off because an insulating hoop, rather than a particle, is present.