Method and system for improving combustion

Abstract

A combustion system comprises a first chamber provided with a fuel inlet, and having, at a distal end thereof, a first swirling structure configured to swirl fuel entering the first chamber via the fuel inlet, a tapered hollow structure positioned within the first chamber and having, at a proximal end of the first chamber, a main inlet configured to receive a flame expanding into the main inlet. A second chamber, which is connected to the distal end of the first chamber, has a second swirling structure opposite to the first swirling structure, and is shaped to ensure a flow of input oxidant gas into both the first and the second swirling structures. The second swirling structure generates a helical flow of the oxidant gas propagating within the second chamber opposite to the flame.

Description

[0001] METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR IMPROVING COMBUSTION

[0002] RELATED APPLICATION

[0003] This application claims the benefit of priority of Spanish Patent Application No. P202330697, filed on August 16, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0004] FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to combustion and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a method and a system for improving combustion.

[0006] Many industrial processes employ combustion chambers wherein fuel and oxidant are combusted to generate heat. Typically, a hydrocarbon fuel is combusted in a combustion chamber with an oxidant to release the fuel's chemical energy, as such a high temperature flame is also formed. Heat from the flame is transferred to process loads for a variety of purposes, such as to produce high pressure steam for electricity generation, or to heat a charge, e.g., glass or metal. The flame combustion process generates high temperature flue gas streams which contain major combustion species such as CO2, SO2 and NOX(e.g., NO, NO2, N2O, or a combination thereof). Normally, NOXin the flue gases of hydrocarbon combustion contains NO. NOXemissions have become a highly regulated pollutant in many industrial processes. Efforts to reduce fuel consumption through combustion air preheating have led to exponential increases in NOXlevels from conventional combustion chamber designs. Efforts to save fuel and increase combustion efficiency via recuperative and / or regenerative combustion systems combined with stricter governmental permitting laws for acceptable NOXemissions from furnaces has led to a much greater awareness and need to solve this problem.

[0007] Document ES 2 293 768 Bl discloses a multipurpose heating body which can be used in non-condensing and condensing boilers. It uses a ceramic fiber premix burner and has a general configuration comprising a fan and a gas solenoid valve which blow air and gas, respectively, into the mixing chamber. The wall of the heating body faces the burner and extends with a suitable angle of convergence. This technology can be used in heating and water heating apparatus and installations.

[0008] Document ES 2733 034 T3 discloses a heat exchange system and a method for use thereof. The purpose of the invention is to provide a system which allows storing and releasing energy in a flexible manner, which is particularly useful in the context of renewable energy production, where the amount of production can be difficult to predict. The patent describes a system including a large heat exchange chamber and a small heat exchange chamber, as well as a method for loading and unloading the system. The patent also includes schematic drawings showing the temperature distribution in different modes of the system.

[0009] Document ES 1 004 587 U describes a feeder system for a boiler body, essentially characterized in that it is made up of a rectangular prismatic hollow body, inside which there are housed and protected the mechanisms which configure the fuel feeder; the upper face of the prismatic body is provided with a hole that communicates with the fuel hopper and at the opposite end of the lower face, another hole communicates with the combustion chamber of the boiler body.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] According to some embodiments of the invention the present invention there is provided a combustion system. The combustion system comprises a first chamber provided with a fuel inlet, and having, at a distal end thereof, a first swirling structure configured to swirl fuel entering the first chamber via the fuel inlet. The combustion system also comprises a tapered hollow structure positioned within the first chamber and having, at a proximal end of the first chamber, a main inlet configured to receive a flame expanding into the main inlet. The combustion system also comprises a second chamber connected to the distal end of the first chamber and having a second swirling structure opposite to the first swirling structure. The second chamber is provided with at least one oxidant gas inlet and is shaped to ensure a flow of oxidant gas from the oxidant gas inlet into both the first swirling structure and the second swirling structure, wherein the second swirling structure is configured to generate a helical flow of the oxidant gas propagating within the second chamber opposite to the flame.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the invention the system comprises a conduit arranged peripherally with respect to an outer wall of the second chamber and extending from the oxidant gas inlet to the second swirling structure so as to guide the oxidant gas into the second swirling structure.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the invention the system comprises a spiral structure and wherein the oxidant gas inlet is mounted on the spiral structure

[0014] According to some embodiments of the invention the spiral structure comprises a pressure gauge engagement element.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the invention the first and the second chamber are arranged colinearly along an axial direction.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the invention the second swirling structure is generally perpendicular to the axial direction and comprises teeth aligned peripherally with respect to a central hole to form grooves that are perpendicular to the axial direction. According to some embodiments of the invention at least one of the first and the second swirling structures is annular.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the invention the system comprises an ignition system connected to the proximal end of the first chamber and configured for generating the flame.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the invention the system comprises a heat and / or pressure receiving system (e.g., a boiler or furnace) connected to the second chamber at a side of the second swirling structure.

[0019] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention there is provided a combustion method. The method comprises igniting a mixture of fuel and oxidant gas to generate a flame and expanding the flame into the main inlet of the combustion system as delineated above and optionally and preferably as further detailed below.

[0020] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention there is provided a combustion method. The method comprises: igniting a mixture of fuel and oxidant gas to generate a flame, directing the flame to a main inlet of a tapered hollow structure positioned within a first chamber, wherein the main inlet is at a proximal end of the first chamber. The method also comprises receiving a fuel from a fuel inlet formed in the first chamber and swirling the fuel by a first swirling structure at a distal end of the first chamber. The method also comprises generating a first flow of oxidant gas toward the first swirling structure and a second flow of oxidant gas toward a second swirling structure of a second chamber connected between the distal end of the first chamber and the second swirling structure. The method also comprises generating, by the second swirling structure, a helical flow propagating within the second chamber opposite to an expansion direction of the flame.

[0021] According to some embodiments of the invention the method comprises guiding the second flow through a conduit arranged peripherally with respect to an outer wall of the second chamber.

[0022] According to some embodiments of the invention the method comprises receiving oxidant gas by a spiral structure, wherein the first and the second flows are generated from the oxidant gas.

[0023] According to some embodiments of the invention the spiral structure is configured to impart planar acceleration.

[0024] According to some embodiments of the invention the spiral structure comprises a pressure gauge engagement element.

[0025] According to some embodiments of the invention the first and the second chamber are arranged colinearly along an axial direction. According to some embodiments of the invention the first swirling structure is generally perpendicular to the axial direction and comprises teeth aligned peripherally with respect to a central hole to form grooves slanted with respect to the axial direction.

[0026] According to some embodiments of the invention the second swirling structure is generally perpendicular to the axial direction and comprises teeth aligned peripherally with respect to a central hole to form grooves that are perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0027] According to some embodiments of the invention at least one of the first and the second swirling structures is annular.

[0028] According to some embodiments of the invention the fuel is gas.

[0029] According to some embodiments of the invention the fuel is liquid.

[0030] According to some embodiments of the invention the fuel is powder.

[0031] According to some embodiments of the invention the method is in use for supplying heat to a boiler.

[0032] According to some embodiments of the invention the method is in use for supplying heat to a furnace.

[0033] According to some embodiments of the invention the method is in use for treating a gas.

[0034] According to some embodiments of the invention the method is in use for propelling a vehicle.

[0035] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

[0036] Implementation of the method and / or system of embodiments of the invention can involve performing or completing selected tasks manually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Moreover, according to actual instrumentation and equipment of embodiments of the method and / or system of the invention, several selected tasks could be implemented by hardware, by software or by firmware or by a combination thereof using an operating system.

[0037] For example, hardware for performing selected tasks according to embodiments of the invention could be implemented as a chip or a circuit. As software, selected tasks according to embodiments of the invention could be implemented as a plurality of software instructions being executed by a computer using any suitable operating system. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, one or more tasks according to exemplary embodiments of method and / or system as described herein are performed by a data processor, such as a computing platform for executing a plurality of instructions. Optionally, the data processor includes a volatile memory for storing instructions and / or data and / or a non-volatile storage, for example, a magnetic hard-disk and / or removable media, for storing instructions and / or data. Optionally, a network connection is provided as well. A display and / or a user input device such as a keyboard or mouse are optionally provided as well.

[0038] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)

[0039] Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

[0040] In the drawings:

[0041] FIGs. 1A and IB are schematic illustrations showing a cutaway perspective view (FIG. 1A) and a cross-sectional view (FIG. IB) of combustion system, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0042] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration showing a perspective view of a first swirling structure according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0043] FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration showing a side elevational view of a spiral structure, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0044] FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration showing a perspective view of a second swirling structure according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0045] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration showing flow paths within the combustion system according to some embodiments of the present invention; and

[0046] FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration showing a perspective view of a connection of the combustion system to a heat receiving system, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0047] DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0048] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to combustion and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a method and a system for improving combustion.

[0049] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and / or methods set forth in the following description and / or illustrated in the drawings and / or the Examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0050] The present embodiments provide a system that improves combustion by dissociating the molecular structure of a fuel, thus increasing the combustion efficiency and allowing to reduce the fuel consumption per unit energy. The dissociation of the fuel's molecular structure produces smaller, more reactive molecules, which burn more completely and more efficiently than larger molecules. The dissociation process also increases the surface area available for combustion, allowing for a more efficient and faster reaction with oxygen. The dissociation process can also improve mixing of the fuel with the oxidant because smaller molecules mix better with oxidant gasses, leading to more uniform combustion and reducing the formation of unbumed molecules. The improved combustion efficiency reduces the emissions of undesired substances, such as, but not limited to, CO2, SO2 and NOX. The reduction can be per unit of fuel consumption, namely less amount of undesired emissions for a given amount of fuel that is used in the combustion process. The dissociation process can also facilitate complete burning of some substances thus contributing to a reduction of undesired emissions irrespectively of the amount of fuel being consumed during the combustion process.

[0051] Types of molecular structures that can be dissociated by system 100 including, without limitation, hydrocarbon chains, e.g., alkanes (paraffins, olefins, etc.) alkynes, aromatics, naphthenes, and the like, and non-hydrocarbon chains, e.g., alcohols, ethers, esters, carbohydrates, fatty acids, lipids, and the like.

[0052] The system of the present embodiments preferably facilitates the dissociation by generating flows of an oxidant gas or a mixture of fuel and oxidant gas in opposite directions, to effect molecular collision and consequently dissociating of the fuel molecules into smaller molecular species. Preferably, at least one of the flows is a helical flow, and in some embodiments of the present invention two helical flows, propagating in opposite directions are generated by the system. The helical flow or flows has a circumferential velocity component and an axial velocity component. Typically, but not necessarily, the circumferential velocity component is dominant and the axial velocity component is subordinate, so that the helical flow is predominantly circumferential.

[0053] The generation of one or more helical flows is advantageous in more than one way. One advantage is that such a flow generates turbulences and cavitation thus enhancing the rate of intermolecule collisions. Another advantage is that the helical flow can be selected to create a separation zone between the combustion flame and the walls of the combustion chamber. The separation zone reduces the likelihood for interaction between the combustion gas. It is recognized that the chamber's walls can change the chemical equilibrium of the combustion reaction by providing surfaces for adsorption and heterogeneous reactions. Such a change can contribute to formation and thereafter emission of various undesired substances. For example, the presence of certain wall materials may result in formation of nitrogen oxides by affecting the reaction pathways. The created separation zone according to some embodiments of the present invention thus reduces such formation and emission of undesired substances by reducing the effect of the chamber's wall on the combustion process.

[0054] Another advantage of the separation zone is that it also provides a thermal barrier between the combustion process and the chamber's wall, thus reducing thermal losses by conduction through the wall.

[0055] In some embodiments of the present invention the dominance of the circumferential velocity component is higher for a helical flow of the oxidant gas than for a helical flow of a fueloxidant mixture that propagates opposite to the helical flow of the oxidant gas. The helical flow of the fuel-oxidant mixture enriches a flame, and so in these embodiments the helical flow of the oxidant gas encircles a region into which the flame expands and within which the helical flow of a fuel-oxidant mixture propagate.

[0056] Referring now to the drawings, FIGs. 1 A and IB illustrate a cutaway perspective view (FIG. 1A) and a cross-sectional view (FIG. IB) of combustion system 100, according to some embodiments of the present invention. System 100 comprises a first chamber 9 extending between a proximal end 24 and a distal end 22 and provided with a fuel inlet 10. Fuel inlet 10 is configured to deliver fuel to first chamber 9. First chamber 9 preferably has a generally cylindrical shape. Inlet 10 can deliver the fuel to any part of chamber 9. For example, in the schematic illustration shown in FIGs. 1A and IB, which is not to be considered as limiting, inlet 10 delivers the fuel to the proximal end 24.

[0057] Inlet 10 can be configured to deliver any type of fuel suitable for use in combustion process, including, without limitation, a fossil fuel, e.g., pulverized coal, natural gas and the like. Other types of fuels include biomass, ethanol, diesel, gasoline, heavy fuel oil, propane, butane, and biogas.

[0058] The proximal end 24 of first chamber is connectable to comprises an ignition system 60 configured for generating a flame. In some embodiments of the present invention ignition system 60 is part of system 100. Alternatively, system 100 can be provided as an add-on to an already installed ignition system 60. Ignition system 60 can be of any type known in the art. In the schematic illustration shown in FIGs. 1A and IB, which are not to be considered as limiting, Ignition system 60 comprises an ignition system chamber 1, a spark plug 2, an ignition control sensor 3 and an ignition system oxidant gas inlet 4 and an ignition system fuel inlet 5. Fuel enters chamber 1 via inlet 5 and oxidant gas enters chamber 1 via inlet 4, forming a mixture of fuel and oxidant gas. A spark generated by plug 2 ignites the mixture, generating a flame. Sensor 3 monitors the ignition and provides feedback to an ignition control system (not shown) which adjusts the timing and / or strength of the spark generated by plug 2. Other types of ignition systems are also contemplated. For example, system 60 can be of the compression-ignition type wherein the ignition is effected by compressing the mixture, rather than by generating a spark.

[0059] System 100 also comprises a tapered hollow structure 6 positioned within first chamber 9 and having, at a proximal end 24 of first chamber 9, a main inlet 7 configured to receive a flame. Hollow structure 6 is tapered in a manner that its internal diameter gradually decreased from proximal end 24 to distal end 22. In some embodiments of the present invention main inlet 7 is also tapered, typically with a diameter that gradually decreases away from proximal end 24. Preferably, main inlet 7 is larger in its diameter than hollow structure 6.

[0060] In some embodiments of the present invention system 100 comprises, at distal end 22 of first chamber 9, a first swirling structure 8, 12 configured to swirl fuel entering first chamber 9 via fuel inlet 10. The first swirling structure can be mounted on first chamber 9, as shown at 12, or on hollow structure 6, as shown at 8. Alternatively, system 100 can have two first swirling structures, wherein structure 8 is mounted on hollow structure 6 and structure 12 is mounted on first chamber 9.

[0061] In some embodiments of the present invention the first swirling structure is annular. A magnified view of first chamber 9 and first swirling structure 12 according to some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 2. As shown, in these embodiments, first swirling structure 12 is generally perpendicular to the axial direction 34 and comprises teeth 40 aligned peripherally with respect to a central hole 42 of structure 12 to form grooves 44 that are slanted with respect to an axial direction shown as longitudinal axis 34. When a mixture of fuel and oxidant gas passes through grooves 44, the grooves 44 swirl the mixture, creating a helical flow propagating away from distal end 22 of first chamber 9.

[0062] Referring again to FIGs. 1A and IB, system 100 also comprises a second chamber 13 extending between a proximal end 26 and a distal end 28. Second chamber 13 preferably has a generally cylindrical shape. The proximal end 26 of second chamber 13 is connected to the distal end 22 of first chamber 9. Ends 22 and 26 are marked by the same arrow in FIGs. 1A and IB. The connection of chambers 9 and 13 is preferably colinear along an axial direction 34. In some embodiments of the present invention the length of second chamber 13 along direction 34 is larger than the length of first chamber 9.

[0063] Second chamber 13 has a second swirling structure 19 opposite to first swirling structure 8, 12, and is provided with one or more oxidant gas inlets 15, which delivers an oxidant gas to second chamber 13. Typically the oxidant gas comprises air, but other types of oxidant gases, such as, but not limited to, pure oxygen, enriched air, nitrous oxide, and chlorine, are also contemplated in some embodiments of the present invention.

[0064] In some embodiments of the present invention inlet 15 is mounted on a spiral structure 14 which receives the oxidant gas from inlet 15 and delivers it to chamber 13. Preferably, spiral structure imparts planar acceleration to the oxidant gas before delivering it chamber 13. A magnified view of spiral structure 14 is illustrated in FIG. 3. Spiral structure 14 is typically enclosed in a hull 30, for example, by means of screws or other fixating members, and comprises a streamlined spiral surface 32 that guides and accelerates the oxidant gas entering through the inlet 15. The spiral surface can form any type of spiral. Representative examples of spiral types suitable for the present embodiments, include, without limitation, an Archimedean spiral, a Fermat's spiral, a logarithmic spiral, a lituus spiral, and a hyperbolic spiral. In some embodiments of the present invention the spiral is an Archimedean spiral. Preferably, the acceleration is in a plane that is perpendicular to longitudinal axis 34. The oxidant gas is accelerated preferably to increase the tangential component of the gas velocity, with a decrease in the radial component of the velocity due to the streamlined spiral surface 32. In some embodiments of the present invention spiral structure 14 comprises a pressure gauge engagement element 16. Pressure gauge engagement element 16 measures the pressure within the interior of spiral structure 14, and optionally and preferably transmits a signal indicative of the pressure to a controller (not shown).

[0065] Second chamber 13 is shaped to ensure that the oxidant gas received from inlet 15 flows into both first swirling structure 8, 12 and second swirling structure 19. In some embodiments of the present invention the flow into second swirling structure 19 is guided by means of a conduit 17 which is arranged peripherally with respect to the outer wall of second chamber 13 and which extends from inlet 15 to second swirling structure 19. The oxidant gas flowing in conduit 17 exit conduit 17 by an opening 18 formed at the distal end 28 of second chamber 13. Preferably, conduit 17 forms a passageway that completely surrounds the outer wall of chamber 13. The flow of oxidant gas to the first swirling structure 8, 12 can be ensured by providing inlet 15 at the proximity of the first swirling structure. When spiral structure 14 is employed, it can be structured to be in fluid communication with both conduit 17 and the first swirling structure, so that the gas which is accelerated close to one internal wall 36 (see FIG. IB) of the spiral structure 14 exits the spiral toward conduit 17 to perform a helical motion therein and the gas which is accelerated close to the opposite wall 38 of the spiral structure 14 exit the spiral toward the first swirling structure. In this respect, the use of spiral structure 14 is advantageous because it facilitates an efficient coupling of the oxidant gas to the first and second swirling structures whereby the gas begins the interaction with the swirling structures while its velocity has an initial tangential component of the gas imparted spiral structure 14.

[0066] In some embodiments of the present invention the second swirling structure is annular. A magnified view of second swirling structure 19 according to some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 4. As shown, in these embodiments, second swirling structure 19 according is perpendicular to axial direction 34, and comprises teeth 46 aligned peripherally with respect to a central hole 48 of second swirling structure 19 to form grooves 50 that are predominantly perpendicular to axial direction 34. Preferably grooves 50 are slanted with resect to the plane of central hole 48, to impart the oxidant gas with a velocity having tangential as well as longitudinal components. When the oxidant gas passes through grooves 50, the grooves 50 swirl the gas, creating a backward helical flow propagating toward the distal end 22 of first chamber 9 (not shown in FIG. 4).

[0067] Reference is now made to FIG. 5 which illustrates flow paths within system 100. An input flow of the fuel received through the fuel inlet 10 is shown at 72, an input flow of the oxidant gas received through the oxidant gas inlet 15 is shown at 74, and the flame received through main inlet 7 is shown at 76. The direction of flame expansion is represented by arrow 78.

[0068] The input flow of the fuel 72 propagates within the first chamber 9 between the inner wall of first chamber 9 and the outer wall of hollow structure, along a direction represented by arrows 80. The input flow of the oxidant gas 74 experiences centripetal acceleration by means of spiral structure 14. Due to this acceleration a portion of the oxidant gas enters conduit 17 with a velocity having a tangential component and performs a helical flow within conduit 17 along a direction represented by arrows 82. Another portion of the oxidant gas arrives via an opening 11 at the distal end 22 of chamber 9 to the first swirling structure 12 (again with a velocity having a tangential component imparted by spiral structure 14) along a direction represented by arrows 84.

[0069] When the flow 84 of the oxidant gas arrives at the first swirling structure 12 it mixes with the flow 80 of the fuel to form an oxidant-fuel mixture. The first swirling structure 12 swirls the oxidant-fuel mixture to form a helical flow 86 propagating within the second chamber 13 toward the distal end 28. Helical flow 86 combines with the flame that is expanded 78 within the hollow structure 6, and enters the second chamber 13. Additional swirling of the mixture burned within flam 76 is imparted by the first swirling structure 8 of hollow structure 6.

[0070] When the helical flow 82 of the oxidant gas arrives at second swirling structure 19, it experiences a further redirection 88 by second swirling structure 19, resulting in a backward helical flow 90 of the oxidant gas. This helical flow 90 propagates within second chamber 13 opposite to the expansion direction 78 of flame 76 and opposition the helical flow 86 of the oxidant-fuel mixture. Collisions between the counter propagating flows 90 and 86 and result in dissociation of the molecular structure of the fuel and better mixing with the oxidant gas, thus improving the combustion process as further detailed hereinabove. Helical flow 90 creates a separation zone 92 between the combustion flame 76 (once expanded into the interior of chamber 13) and the internal walls of combustion chamber 13. Separation zone 92 is peripheral within chamber 13. Since the oxidant gas in flow 90 arrives from the outside (via inlet 15) and has not yet interacted with the flame it is colder than the flame and the helical flow 86 which is combined with the flame. Thus, the temperature in zone 92 is lower than the along the axis 34 (not shown in FIG. 5, see, e.g., FIG. IB). This maintains the wall of chamber 13 at a temperature that is lower than the combustion temperature, reducing its effect on the combustion process.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 6, system 100 can be used in any of a variety of applications, including, without limitation, to supply heat to a burner for producing high pressure steam for generation of non-thermal e.g., electrical) energy, or to a furnace including a charge, such as, but not limited to, glass or metal or any other solid, liquid or gaseous substance, for thermally treating the charge. Such a utilization of system 100 is optionally and preferably achieved by connecting the distal end 28 of second chamber 13, namely at a side of second swirling structure 19, to a heat and / or pressure receiving system 102, by means of a connecting member 20 such as, but not limited to, a flange or the like. Heat and / or pressure receiving system 102, can be of any known type that utilizes thermal energy or pressure. For example, in some embodiments of the present invention system 102 is a burner and in some embodiments of the present invention system 102 is a furnace.

[0072] Thus, for example, system 100 can be used in thermal power plants, where fossil fuels such as coal, natural gas, or oil are burned to produce steam. The steam drives turbines connected to generators, producing electricity. The system's ability to optimize combustion efficiency directly impacts the overall efficiency of power generation and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. System 100 can also be used in combined heat and power systems, also known as cogeneration systems, which exploit the combustion process of the present embodiments to produce both electricity and useful heat. System 100 can also be used for industrial heating. For example, when heat and / or pressure receiving system 102 is a furnace, it can be used for processes like metal smelting, glassmaking, and ceramics. The efficient combustion provided by system 100 leads to better control over product quality and reduced energy consumption. When heat and / or pressure receiving system 102 is a boiler, it can be used to generate steam for various processes, such as chemical manufacturing, food processing, pulp and paper production, and the like.

[0073] System 100 can alternatively be used in the field of aerospace propulsion. In aerospace applications, such as jet engines and rocket propulsion, the ability of the combustion system of the present embodiments to efficiently burn the fuel is advantageous, for achieving a high thrust with low fuel consumption.

[0074] System 100 can also be used in home heating systems, whereby system 100 can be integrated into residential heating systems, including furnaces, boilers, water heaters, fireplaces, and stoves, exploiting the ability of the system optionally and preferably to more efficient bum fuel such as wood or biomass, reducing particulate emissions and enhancing heat output.

[0075] System 100 can also be used in environmental control systems, including, without limitation, waste incineration systems, wherein the combustion system of the present embodiments can be employed to incinerate municipal and hazardous waste, and flare systems such as those used in the oil and gas industry for burning off excess hydrocarbons.

[0076] Also contemplated are embodiments in which system 100 is used in chemical processing applications, whereby a catalytic reactor enacts the heat and / or pressure receiving system 102, or synthesis gas production, whereby the heat and / or pressure receiving system 102 is configured for executing a process such as, but not limited to, steam reforming, partial oxidation, and gasification.

[0077] It is expected that during the life of a patent maturing from this application many relevant systems that utilize thermal energy and / or pressure will be developed and the scope of the term receiving system, is intended to include all such new technologies a priori.

[0078] As used herein the term “about” refers to ± 10 %

[0079] The terms "comprises", "comprises", "includes", "including", “having” and their conjugates mean "including but not limited to".

[0080] The term “consisting of’ means “including and limited to”.

[0081] The term "consisting essentially of" means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and / or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and / or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure. As used herein, the singular form "a", "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term "a compound" or "at least one compound" may include a plurality of compounds, including mixtures thereof.

[0082] Throughout this application, various embodiments of this invention may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0083] Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range. The phrases “ranging / ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “ranging / ranges from” a first indicate number “to” a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numerals therebetween.

[0084] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0085] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

[0086] It is the intent of the applicant(s) that all publications, patents and patent applications referred to in this specification are to be incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually noted when referenced that it is to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting. In addition, any priority document(s) of this application is / are hereby incorporated herein by reference in its / their entirety.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A combustion system, comprising: a first chamber provided with a fuel inlet, and having, at a distal end thereof, a first swirling structure configured to swirl fuel entering said first chamber via said fuel inlet; a tapered hollow structure positioned within said first chamber and having, at a proximal end of said first chamber, a main inlet configured to receive a flame expanding into said main inlet; a second chamber connected to said distal end of said first chamber and having a second swirling structure opposite to said first swirling structure, said second chamber being provided with at least one oxidant gas inlet and being shaped to ensure a flow of oxidant gas from said oxidant gas inlet into both said first swirling structure and said second swirling structure; wherein said second swirling structure is configured to generate a helical flow of said oxidant gas propagating within said second chamber opposite to said flame.

2. The system according to claim 1, comprising a conduit arranged peripherally with respect to an outer wall of said second chamber and extending from said oxidant gas inlet to said second swirling structure so as to guide said oxidant gas into said second swirling structure.

3. The system according to any of claims 1 and 2, comprising a spiral structure and wherein said oxidant gas inlet is mounted on said spiral structure.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein said spiral structure is configured to impart planar acceleration.

5. The system according to any of claims 1-4, wherein said spiral structure comprises a pressure gauge engagement element.

6. The system according to any of claims 1-5, wherein said first and said second chamber are arranged colinearly along an axial direction.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein said first swirling structure is generally perpendicular to said axial direction and comprises teeth aligned peripherally with respect to a central hole to form grooves slanted with respect to said axial direction.

8. The system according to any of claims 6 and 7, wherein said second swirling structure is generally perpendicular to said axial direction and comprises teeth aligned peripherally with respect to a central hole to form grooves that are perpendicular to said axial direction.

9. The system according to any of claims 1-8, wherein at least one of said first and said second swirling structures is annular.

10. The system according to any of claims 1-9, comprising an ignition system connected to said proximal end of said first chamber and configured for generating said flame.

11. The system according to any of claims 1-10, comprising a heat and / or pressure receiving system connected to said second chamber at a side of said second swirling structure.

12. A combustion method, comprising igniting a mixture of fuel and oxidant gas to generate a flame and expanding said flame into the main inlet of the system according to any of claims 1-11.

13. A combustion method, comprising: igniting a mixture of fuel and oxidant gas to generate a flame; directing said flame to a main inlet of a tapered hollow structure positioned within a first chamber, said main inlet being at a proximal end of said first chamber; receiving a fuel from a fuel inlet formed in said first chamber and swirling said fuel by a first swirling structure at a distal end of said first chamber; generating a first flow of oxidant gas toward said first swirling structure and a second flow of oxidant gas toward a second swirling structure of a second chamber connected between said distal end of said first chamber and said second swirling structure; and by said second swirling structure, generating a helical flow propagating within said second chamber opposite to an expansion direction of said flame.

14. The method according to claim 13, comprising guiding said second flow through a conduit arranged peripherally with respect to an outer wall of said second chamber.

15. The method according to any of claims 13 and 14, comprising receiving oxidant gas by a spiral structure, wherein said first and said second flows are generated from said oxidant gas.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein said spiral structure is configured to impart planar acceleration.

17. The method according to any of claims 13-16, wherein said spiral structure comprises a pressure gauge engagement element.

18. The method according to any of claims 13-17, wherein said first and said second chamber are arranged colinearly along an axial direction.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein said first swirling structure is generally perpendicular to said axial direction and comprises teeth aligned peripherally with respect to a central hole to form grooves slanted with respect to said axial direction.

20. The method according to any of claims 18 and 19, wherein said second swirling structure is generally perpendicular to said axial direction and comprises teeth aligned peripherally with respect to a central hole to form grooves that are perpendicular to said axial direction.

21. The method according to any of claims 13-20, wherein at least one of said first and said second swirling structures is annular.

22. The method according to any of claims 12-21, wherein said fuel is gas.

23. The method according to any of claims 12-21, wherein said fuel is liquid.

24. The method according to any of claims 12-21, wherein said fuel is powder.

25. The method according to any of claims 12-24, in use for supplying heat to a boiler.

26. The method according to any of claims 12-24, in use for supplying heat to a furnace.

27. The method according to any of claims 12-24, in use for treating a gas.

28. The method according to any of claims 12-24, in use for propelling a vehicle.

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