Micro-mixer Module with Inclined Flow Path for Combustion Flame Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gas turbines face challenges in stabilizing flames at the outlet of micro-mixers, leading to spontaneous ignition and flashback due to radiant heat transfer from the combustion chamber, and inefficient mixing of fuel and air, which affects combustion efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A micro-mixer module with an inclined flow path and an air hole at the combustor chamber end, designed to reduce radiant heat transfer and improve mixing efficiency by injecting a fuel-air mixture at a predetermined angle, and an air plenum to introduce compressed air, stabilizing the flame at the nozzle outlet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a micro-mixer is used to mix fuel and air, then mixing efficiency is improved, but radiant heat transfer from the combustion chamber causes spontaneous ignition and flashback
Solution Approach 1:
The flow path is designed with a three-dimensional inclined configuration that deviates from the direct linear path between combustion chamber and inlet. This spatial reorientation reduces radiant heat transfer while maintaining mixing efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
An inclined flow path acts as an intermediary structure between the combustion chamber outlet and the inlet portion, physically blocking direct radiant heat transfer while allowing fluid flow to continue
2Reliability
If the flow path is designed to prevent heat transfer, then spontaneous ignition is prevented, but mixing efficiency may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Different sections of the flow path have different functions: the inclined section primarily blocks radiant heat, while the outlet and inlet portions maintain optimized geometry for efficient mixing. Each section is designed with appropriate characteristics for its specific role
3Device complexity
If air is introduced through feed holes only, then mixing is simplified, but flame stabilization at the outlet is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The air supply system is segmented into two pathways: feed holes that introduce air along the flow path for mixing, and air holes at the outlet that introduce air specifically for flame stabilization. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each function
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
Prevents spontaneous ignition and flashback, enhances combustion efficiency by stabilizing the flame and improving mixing efficiency, even in the absence of swirling flows.
Implementation Method 1
formed inclined at a predetermined angle to reduce transfer of radiant heat by a flame generated in the combustion chamber to the inlet flow path
Implementation Method 2
the first fluid introduced through the inlet portion and the second fluid fed through the feed hole are mixed to form a fluid mixture
Implementation Method 3
an inlet flow path having the inlet portion formed on one side thereof and the feed hole formed in the circumferential wall and through which the fuel mixture flows
Implementation Method 4
a combustion chamber in which a fuel fluid combusts
Data Source
AI summary
A micro-mixer module and a combustor having the same are provided. The micro-mixer module includes a micro-mixer having an inlet portion formed on one side and through which a first fluid is introduced and a feed hole formed in a circumferential wall and through which a second fluid is fed, wherein the first fluid introduced through the inlet portion and the second fluid fed through the feed hole are mixed to form a fluid mixture which is injected into a combustion chamber, and an air hole formed at a side end of the combustor chamber of the micro-mixer.