Optimal transient growth and transition to turbulence in the MHD pipe flow subject to a transverse magnetic field

Abstract: We consider the influence of a transverse magnetic field on the transient growth of perturbations in a liquid-metal circular pipe flow with an electrically insulating or conducting wall. In this configuration, the mean flow profile and the amplification of perturbations are strongly affected by the applied magnetic field, leading to a rich dynamical landscape depending on its intensity. The analysis is performed for Reynolds numbers 5000 and 10 000, close to the transitional regime for moderate values of the Hartmann number, a non-dimensional parameter proportional to the applied magnetic field's intensity. Aside from a slight modification of hydrodynamic optimal perturbations at very small Hartmann numbers, we observe three other characteristic topologies of optimal perturbations depending on the intensity of the magnetic field. Their growth mechanisms differ, with the lift-up effect dominating at low Hartmann numbers and the Orr-mechanism becoming increasingly important as the magnetic field intensity is increased. In particular, we show in the intermediate regime of Hartmann numbers how transient growth occurs in two stages, with initial growth through the lift-up effect followed by a further increase of energy through the Orr-mechanism. We also conduct three-dimensional nonlinear simulations to track the time evolution of optimal perturbations, illustrating their nonlinear growth and eventual breakdown to a sustained turbulent state or the return of the system to a laminar state.