An Experimental Investigation of Flow Conditions Behind a Bluff Body Flameholder

Citation

Utterback, Paul Wilson (1960) An Experimental Investigation of Flow Conditions Behind a Bluff Body Flameholder. Engineer's thesis, California Institute of Technology. doi:10.7907/YHR8-6948. https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechETD:etd-12052005-151405

Abstract

Carbon-containing combustion products were analyzed behind a bluff body flameholder in a two-dimensional duct. Molar concentrations of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and unburned hydrocarbon fuel were obtained at various positions vertically across the duct 34 1/8 inches behind the flameholder by means of an Infra Red Anaylzer. A carbon balance was conducted across the duct, and parameters such as combustion efficiency, temperature, pressure, sampling rate, density, and velocity of the gas mixture were determined. The data indicate that the methods of sampling and measurement and the use of the analyzer were satisfactory in this type of investigation. Division of the flame into three distinct zones (unburned, reaction, and burned) is shown to be a reasonable approximation. The carbon balance across the duct was found to be in good agreement with theoretical predictions, provided that the water vapor in the gas samples was properly evaluated. Flame spreading behind the flameholder is a slow process, and this fact was verified by evaluation of the combustion efficiency and by determination of the limits of the burned zone.

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