Effect of swirl and flow distribution on the spray flame characteristics

The flame stand-off distance and flame plume configuration is of considerable importance in almost all propulsion and power systems. We provide information on the flame global structure as affected by atomization gas, radial distribution of swirl and air in the burner. The experimental facility in the form of a double concentric swirl burner, has been designed and built. Kerosene is used as the fuel using a commercially available twin fluid atomizer. The other atomization gases to be examined here include oxygen, steam, CO/sub 2/, air, H/sub 2/ methane, propane and their suitable mixtures. We seek to develop advanced methodologies for controlling the structure of spray flames in addition to enhancing efficiency and reducing pollution. The use of other atomization gases, besides the usual air, will provide focus for achieving smaller droplet size and increasing the fuel vapor concentration at desired regions in the spray. The methodology is to first determine the global spray flame structure for the base line case using air as the atomization gas and then determine the isolated role of various control parameters on the thermal and chemical behavior of turbulent spray flames. Then apply control to pertinent parameters for determining the most effective control parameters. The spray flame structure is determined using a combination of intrusive and nonintrusive laser diagnostics. Our experimental facility is now fully operational. Preliminary data have been taken on the global flame features with air and propane as the atomization gas. The results show significant differences in the flame characteristics.