Magnet Powered Submarine - The Hunt for Red October IRL!

Summary

In this video, a team builds a submarine powered by magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), a technology that uses electricity and magnetic fields to propel a conductive fluid like seawater. They begin by explaining the science behind MHD propulsion, then build a prototype using a 3D printed hull, aluminum plates, and magnets. After testing in saltwater and refining the design, the submarine successfully moves, although slowly at first. By increasing salt concentration and using fresh batteries, the submarine gains more speed. The project showcases the potential of MHD technology for underwater propulsion in an engaging and educational manner.

Takeaways

• 😀 Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) is the study of electrically conductive fluids, such as seawater, and how a magnetic field and electric current interact to create force.
• 😀 The prototype submarine is powered by a magnetohydrodynamic drive, which uses electricity and magnets to propel water through the system.
• 😀 The drive system consists of two aluminum plates inside a clear tube, with a current passing through them when submerged in seawater, generating thrust via the Lorentz force.
• 😀 The right-hand rule is used to predict the direction of the force created by the interaction of the magnetic field and electric current.
• 😀 A clear demonstration of the MHD drive’s effectiveness was done by adding food coloring to show the flow of water through the tube.
• 😀 The submarine model was designed to have dual inlets and outlets, inspired by the fictional submarine from the movie 'The Hunt for Red October'.
• 😀 A simple prototype of the MHD drive was tested using a 12-volt power supply and a single magnet, which was later upgraded to a stronger configuration with two magnets.
• 😀 After testing the MHD drive, the submarine model was assembled with a battery pack, switch, and magnets, with the batteries providing power to the system.
• 😀 Initial buoyancy issues with the submarine were solved by adding styrofoam to the upper hull for better flotation.
• 😀 The submarine was tested in a 20-gallon tank with a higher concentration of salt, which enhanced the conductivity of the seawater and improved the submarine's movement speed.
• 😀 The experimental submarine was able to move slowly through the water with visible propulsion generated by the MHD drive, with more salt in the water increasing its speed and efficiency.

Q & A

What is magnetohydrodynamics, and how does it apply to the submarine model?

Magnetohydrodynamics is the study of electrically conductive fluids, such as seawater, which interact with magnetic fields. In the submarine model, a combination of electricity and a magnetic field creates a Lorentz force that propels the seawater through the drive section, allowing the submarine to move.

How was the prototype for the magnetohydrodynamic drive created?

The prototype was created by gluing two pieces of aluminum on opposite sides of a clear tube, then submerging it in saltwater. When a voltage was applied across the aluminum plates, a current flowed through the seawater. Magnets placed at the top and bottom of the tube created a magnetic field, causing the water to be propelled through the tube.

Why was food coloring used during the prototype test?

Food coloring was used to visualize the flow of seawater through the tube. It helped to demonstrate the speed and direction of the water, making it easier to observe the effectiveness of the magnetohydrodynamic drive.

What design features were added to the model submarine?

The submarine model was designed with a single drive, dual inlets, and outlets. The lower hull contained the drive section, with a power supply and magnets securing the drive in place. Styrofoam was added for buoyancy, and the upper hull enclosed the components, including a periscope and power switch.

What role do the magnets play in the submarine's propulsion?

The magnets create a strong, uniform magnetic field that interacts with the electric current flowing through the seawater. This interaction generates a force that propels the water through the drive section and moves the submarine forward.

How does the submarine achieve buoyancy?

The submarine wasn't initially buoyant enough, so styrofoam was inserted into the upper hull to make it float. This adjustment allowed the submarine to achieve proper buoyancy, helping it stay afloat during tests.

What were the challenges faced with the submarine's buoyancy?

The main challenge was that the submarine was too dense initially, causing it to sink. By adding styrofoam, the team was able to adjust the buoyancy, making the submarine float and achieve better movement control.

What role did the stir plate play in the larger ocean test?

The stir plate, made from an old computer fan and magnets, was used to help dissolve the salt in a large tank of water. It created swirling motion that ensured the salt mixed evenly, which was essential for ensuring a higher electric current for propulsion.

Why was additional salt added to the test water?

Additional salt was added to increase the conductivity of the seawater. The more salt present, the higher the electric current that could flow between the aluminum plates, resulting in more power and greater propulsion for the submarine.

How was the speed of the submarine affected by the changes in the test setup?

The speed of the submarine increased when more salt was added to the water, which allowed for a stronger electric current. With a new set of fresh batteries and higher conductivity, the submarine moved faster, as shown by the more pronounced propulsion bubbles at the back.