Semi–technical aero-engine combustors – a glimpse on combustion processes given by in-situ optical techniques

Abstract

International audienceThe high-pressure combustion of kerosene is studied on a semi-technical aeronautic combustor equipped with a single-swirled injector using laser optical techniques. These experiments answer to nowadays milestones encountered in the aeronautic sector related to energy consumption and emissions reduction. With a focus on these objectives, our study presents a close look into the complex physicochemical processes taking place in severe combustion conditions representative of airplane engine landing-take-off (LTO) operation modes. The primary energy source (combustion) is studied with diagnostics as laser induced fluorescence/incandescence, scattering and particle image velocimetry. These techniques bring information about the precursors of soot particles, namely polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, soot particles, fuel spray characteristics, and velocity flow fields. Combined results are used to understand and identify the main principles governing the behavior of combustion, production of particulate and gas pollutants, as well as their radiative effects. The feasibility of selected optical techniques in these specific environments is discussed as well