A Dynamical Systems Approach to Study Cellular Flame Instability

本计画的目标是以实验、数值与分析的方式，探讨预混胞状火焰型态的形成、演化与可能的控制机制。 所提出的方法结合了动力系统理论和等变分岔分析的前沿思想和方法，并采用了新的计算方法。 特别是，该项目旨在了解控制火焰动力学的潜在机制，以及了解噪声对火焰特性的影响，包括传播速度和火焰形状。稀薄预混燃烧是一种新兴技术，可用于实现先进燃气轮机的超低氮氧化物排放。 然而，该技术产生蜂窝状火焰不稳定性，其可通过过热或振动损坏燃烧器硬件，产生循环疲劳和磨损的燃烧器密封件。 因此，理解和控制蜂窝火焰不稳定性的任务是一个重要的问题，具有很强的潜力，以减少燃烧对环境的影响。 本研究分析了控制火焰动力学的机制。 该项目将通过参与研究来教育应用数学和计算科学的研究生。

The goal of this project is to investigate, experimentally, numerically, and analytically, the formation, evolution, and possible control mechanisms of premixed cellular flame patterns. The proposed approach incorporates ideas and methods at the forefront of dynamical systems theory and equivariant bifurcation analysis with new computational methods. In particular, the project seeks to understand the underlying mechanisms that govern the flame dynamics as well as understanding the effects of noise on the flame characteristics, including velocity of propagation and flame shape.Lean premixed combustion is an emergent technology for attaining ultra-low Nitrogen Oxide emissions in advanced gas turbines. The technology, however, generates cellular flame instabilities that can damage the combustor hardware through overheating or vibration, producing cycle fatigue and worn combustor seals. Consequently, the task of understanding and controlling cellular flame instabilities is an important problem with a strong potential to reduce environmental impact of combustion. This research analyzes the mechanisms that govern flame dynamics. The project will educate graduate students in Applied Mathematics and in Computational Sciences through involvement in the research.