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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.

Item Type:Thesis (Engineer's thesis)
Subject Keywords:(Aeronautical Engineering)
Degree Grantor:California Institute of Technology
Division:Engineering and Applied Science
Major Option:Aeronautics
Thesis Availability:Public (worldwide access)
Research Advisor(s):
  • Zukoski, Edward E.
Group:GALCIT
Thesis Committee:
  • Unknown, Unknown
Defense Date:1 January 1960
Record Number:CaltechETD:etd-12052005-151405
Persistent URL:https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechETD:etd-12052005-151405
DOI:10.7907/YHR8-6948
Default Usage Policy:No commercial reproduction, distribution, display or performance rights in this work are provided.
ID Code:4793
Collection:CaltechTHESIS
Deposited By: Imported from ETD-db
Deposited On:06 Dec 2005
Last Modified:09 Nov 2023 00:48

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