Magnetic Flashback Protector Using Lorentz Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flashback arrestors in gas turbine engines are either maintenance-intensive, prone to clogging, or ineffective against very hot and violent flashbacks, and they can restrict fuel flow, leading to potential explosions.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic flashback protector that generates a magnetic field across the fuel flow path, inducing a current in the fluid to create a Lorentz force that prevents flashback propagation, using electromagnets or permanent magnets with a closed-loop flow path to avoid electrode erosion and maintain fuel flow integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a passive flashback arrestor (metal or ceramic heat absorber) is used, then the flashback is prevented from propagating, but the arrestor can become overheated and ignite upstream fuel, allowing flashback to propagate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the passive thermal absorption mechanism with an active electromagnetic field-based mechanism. Electromagnets generate a magnetic field that interacts with the conductive flame front to produce a Lorentz force, actively repelling the flashback without relying on thermal absorption, thereby avoiding overheating issues
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters by using high-frequency alternating current in the electromagnets to generate a time-varying magnetic field. This dynamic field interacts with the moving flame front, creating a continuous repulsive force that adapts to the flashback conditions without thermal accumulation
2Reliability
If electrodes are used to generate magnetic field, then magnetic field is generated to prevent flashback, but electrodes are susceptible to erosion and require periodic replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electrode-based electromagnetic generation system with a coil-based electromagnet system. The coils generate the magnetic field without direct contact with the flame, eliminating erosion issues while maintaining the ability to generate strong magnetic fields for flashback prevention
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic core material as an intermediary between the electrical current and the magnetic field generation. The ferromagnetic cores concentrate and amplify the magnetic field generated by the coils, enhancing the Lorentz force effect on the flame without requiring electrodes to be exposed to the harsh combustion environment
3Reliability
If flashback arrestor places large obstruction in fuel-supply line, then flashback is prevented, but fuel flow is restricted and path becomes clogged with particles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical obstruction-based flashback prevention with a magnetic field-based approach. The electromagnets generate a magnetic field that acts on the conductive flame front to repel it, allowing the fuel flow path to remain open and unobstructed, thereby maintaining high fuel flow rates while preventing flashback
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional mechanical barrier approach to a three-dimensional magnetic field approach. The magnetic field permeates the fuel flow path volumetrically, providing flashback prevention throughout the flow cross-section without requiring physical obstruction, thus maintaining unrestricted fuel flow
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The magnetic flashback protector effectively prevents flashback propagation with minimal maintenance, reduced risk of clogging, and minimal obstruction in the fuel flow path, even in high-temperature scenarios, thereby preventing explosions.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic-field generator arranged to generate a magnetic field across the flow path
Implementation Method 2
when in use and a flashback occurs fluid flows in the flow path towards the fuel supply through the magnetic field, which then induces a flow of current in the fluid
Implementation Method 3
thereby generating a force on the fluid in a direction away from the fuel supply. The force prevents the flashback from reaching the fuel supply
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a flashback protector (1) for limiting the propagation of a flame towards a fuel supply. The flashback protector comprises a downstream side (34) and an upstream side (32) defining a flow path between them. A magnetic-field generator (10, 20) is arranged to generate a magnetic field (40) across the flow path such that when a flashback occurs fluid flows in the flow path towards the fuel supply through the magnetic field (40). This causes a flow of current (50) to be induced in the fluid. This results in a force being generated on the fluid away from the fuel supply, preventing the flashback from reaching the fuel supply and causing an explosion.