COMPUTER APPLICATIONS TO COMBUSTION RESEARCH

Abstract

This paper describes numerous areas in combustion research where the computers have made significant contribution to a better understanding of the combustion phenomena, both theoretically and experimentally. Many examples are considered where the computers have provided the key role for data handling and data acquisition at high frequency as desired in practical turbulent diffusion flames. Frequency response of many KHz is desired in order to show the structure of eddies and flow patterns, to analyze the high frequency changes and complex flame propagation. Computers have made significant contributions for the measurement of important parameters in combustion systems with the aid of several laser-based nonintrusive diagnostic techniques; several of these methods are discussed here. Emphasis is on methods that have been successfully utilized or show good potential for their application in hostile environment. The merits and limitations of several methods described herein are also assessed with respect to their accuracy, resolution and relative ease of measurement. Lasers, high-speed photography and optical diagnostics have made particular contributions to the understanding of flowfield, turbulence and eddy structures in flames. To certain extent these flowfield and eddy structures can be modeled mathematically using complex algorithm and super computers. Theoretically flame behavior can be described by adequate set of equations with appropriate boundary conditions. Once the governing equations and the boundary conditions are identified, a series of transformations of these equations are performed with view to obtain a general solution of the problem. It is demonstrated that computers and super computers, amongst other areas, have made possible the solutions of mathematical equations governing the flowfields both with and without chemical reactions. In the area of flowfield diagnostics computer technology has greatly improved the analytical modeling methodology. A specific example is presented in order to illustrate the details of the technique for obtaining prediction of the flowfield behavior. This problem solving approach clearly demonstrates the fundamental contribution for the development of computer technology in the theoretical modeling of physical phenomena.

KEYWORDS:

• Combustion
• Computer modeling
• Numerical solutions

Additional information

Notes on contributors

A.K. GUFTA

Associate Professor, Associate Fellow AIAA, C.Eng. (U.K.)

M. DIMARZO

Assistant Professor