A laboratory combustor for studies of premixed combustion instability

Abstract

Instability of premixed combustors has been a problem of considerable practical importance for several decades. This instability originates from a coupling between the flame's heat release and the combustor acoustics, and is therefore often referred to as a 'thermoacoustic' instability. The excited acoustic oscillations may cause high combustor noise levels, poor combustion, increased emissions and even catastrophic combustor failure. Experimental rigs for the study of premixed combustion instability require that careful attention be paid to the design of the combusting and acoustic components of this coupled system. Such a rig has been designed and commissioned at the University of Melbourn..