Numerical Computation of Fluid Flow in a Magnetohydrodynamic Micropump

A 2-dimensional model is developed to investigate fluid flow in a magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) microp- ump. The transient, laminar, incompressible, and developing flow equations are numerically solved using the finite difference method and the SIMPLE algorithm. The micropump is driven using the Lorentz force, which is induced as a result of interaction between an applied electric field and a perpendicular magnetic field. The effect of Hartmann number on the transient velocity profile and the entrance region length is stud- ied. It is found that controlling the electrical conductivity and magnetic flux density will allow controlling the entrance region length.