Numerical investigations of small-size high throughflow speed combustors with trapped-vortex concept

Song Chen, Randy S.M. Chue, Tue T.Q. Nguyen, Simon C.M. Yu

Research output: Chapter in book / Conference proceedingConference article published in proceeding or bookAcademic researchpeer-review

Abstract

The main challenges in designing a small-size combustor operating at relatively high throughflow speeds are the insufficient space for mixing and burning due to the short residence time of mixtures and the difficulties in flame stabilization. In this study, the trapped vortex combustor (TVC) concept is investigated because it provides a more stable way for mixing and flame holding by holding the pilot flame inside a cavity instead of exposing it to the mainstream. The computations are performed using a well-validated flow solver with appropriate models for turbulence, species transport and combustion. Three main parts are studied including the flow field characteristics of the combustor without fuel injection; the effects of fuel injection, mixing and penetration without combustion; and the combustion process. The optimum cavity configuration in the cold flow, the mixing efficiency, the total pressure and the combustion efficiency are considered in these parts. The results show that TVC provides a good overall performance for the designed combustor and also has the potential to be compact. This paper represents a contribution to understand the capability and working processes of trapped vortex combustors for high speed flows.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication49th AIAA/ASME/SAE/ASEE Joint Propulsion Conference
PublisherAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Inc.
ISBN (Print)9781624102226
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2013
Externally publishedYes
Event49th AIAA/ASME/SAE/ASEE Joint Propulsion Conference, JPC 2013 - San Jose, United States
Duration: 14 Jul 201317 Jul 2013

Publication series

Name49th AIAA/ASME/SAE/ASEE Joint Propulsion Conference
Volume1 PartF

Conference

Conference49th AIAA/ASME/SAE/ASEE Joint Propulsion Conference, JPC 2013
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Jose
Period14/07/1317/07/13

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Control and Systems Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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