Segmented Micromixer Combustion Head End Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current micromixer designs in gas turbine engines suffer from obstructed airflow due to multiple fuel feeds and external support structures, which hinder effective mixing of fuel and air, leading to increased NOx emissions and reduced efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A segmented micromixer design with a base nozzle structure that provides structural support while minimizing air flow obstructions, featuring coaxial tubes for fuel delivery and an air intake system that ensures uniform air and fuel distribution through mixing tubes, reducing the number of protrusions in the airflow path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple fuel feeds and external support structures are used in micromixer design, then structural support is provided, but air flow is obstructed and mixing is decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The micromixer integrates the support structure and fuel delivery system into a single unified base nozzle structure. The support ribs are formed as integral parts of the base nozzle structure, eliminating the need for separate external support walls. This merging reduces the number of discrete components while maintaining structural integrity and minimizing air flow obstructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The base nozzle structure is segmented into multiple functional zones: fuel injection ports, support ribs, and air intake passages. The support ribs are strategically segmented and positioned to provide structural support only where necessary, leaving air flow paths unobstructed. This segmented approach allows the structure to be optimized for both strength and flow characteristics.
2Stability of the object's composition
If external support walls are used to support micromixer, then structural stability is achieved, but air flow to head end is inhibited
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using external support walls that extend in the air flow direction, the support structure uses ribs that extend perpendicular to the air flow path. This dimensional change allows the support structure to provide stability without blocking the primary air flow direction. The ribs are positioned to support the micromixer assembly from the sides rather than from the front.
Solution Approach 2:
The base nozzle structure has varying local qualities: thicker sections where structural support is needed and thinner sections where air flow is prioritized. The support ribs are strategically placed only in regions requiring structural reinforcement, while air intake passages remain open and unobstructed in regions where air flow is critical.
3Strength
If current micromixer design with multiple components is used, then structural support is provided, but number of parts and welds increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base nozzle structure combines multiple previously separate components into a single integrated part. The support ribs, fuel delivery channels, and air intake passages are all formed as integral features of the base nozzle structure, eliminating the need for separate support walls, fuel feeds, and associated welding joints. This reduces assembly complexity and potential leak paths.
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 design enhances fuel and air mixing, resulting in lower NOx emissions, improved efficiency, reduced costs, and increased reliability by simplifying the structure and reducing the number of parts and welds, while facilitating easier maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
good mixing of the fuel stream and the air stream
Implementation Method 2
the fuel stream and the air stream may be premixed in a Dry Low NOx (DLN) combustor
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
Embodiments of the present application can provide systems and methods for a micromixer combustion head end assembly. The micromixer may include one or more base nozzle structures (102). The base nozzle structures (102) may include coaxial tubes. The coaxial tubes may include an inner tube (110) and an outer tube (112). The micromixer may also include one or more segmented mixing tube bundles (109) at least partially supported by a respective base nozzle structure (102). Moreover, the micromixer may include an end cap assembly disposed about the one or more segmented mixing tube bundles (108).