Combustion systems: a porous-matrix burner and a surface combustor. Topical report, June 1984-December 1985

In this study, two combustion systems were experimentally evaluated for potential application to gas-fired appliances: an atmospheric porous-matrix burner and a packed-bed surface combustor. The normal radiant output of a porous matrix burner was measured over a range of input from 30,000 to 110,000 Btu/h-sq ft and aerations from 0% to 40% excess air. The data were compared to similar published data for radiant tile burners. Emissions of nitric oxide (NO), nitrogen dioxide (NO/sub 2/), and carbon monoxide (CO) were also measured and reported. The potential advantage of the type of burner is its ability to produce high levels of radiation heat at high gas-loading levels (Btu/h-sq ft.).