Laser Diagnostic System Validation and Ultra-Compact Combustor Characterization

Abstract

The AFIT combustion optimization and analysis laser (COAL) lab is now completely operational and is state-of-the-art in combustion diagnostics. The objective of this research is to perform a validation of a laser diagnostic system and to begin the characterization of a small-scale model of an ultra-compact combustor (UCC). Validation of the laser system was accomplished by using planar laser induced fluorescence (PLIF) on a laminar premixed hydrogen-air flame produced by a Hencken burner. OH species concentrations are measured. Flame temperatures are determined with a two line fluorescence technique using different transitions in the (1,0) band of the OH (A-X) electronic transition system. Comparisons are made to existing research to prove accuracy. Characterization of the UCC began by developing an operational procedure. A proper starting condition and operating regime has been established. Pressures, temperature, and emissions data have been recorded for a range of equivalence ratios. Comparisons are made to previous computational fluid dynamic (CFD) research. Combustion efficiencies of over 99% have been recorded when operating the small-scale UCC. Future work will involve using PLIF to take non-intrusive measurements inside the combustor through optically clear quartz windows to study cavity-vane interactions.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 01, 2008
Accession Number
ADA478891

Entities

People

  • Terry B. Hankins

Organizations

  • Air Force Institute of Technology

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Calorific Value
  • Chemical Reactions
  • Combustion
  • Combustion Chambers
  • Combustion Products
  • Combustors
  • Computational Fluid Dynamics
  • Dielectric Gases
  • Gas Turbines
  • Ignition Lag
  • Laser Beams
  • Laser Induced Fluorescence
  • Lasers
  • Test And Evaluation
  • Three Dimensional
  • Two Dimensional

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Combustion science or combustion engineering.
  • Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
  • Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) Technology.

Technology Areas

  • Directed Energy
  • Microelectronics