The design and performance of a RP-3 fueled high temperature rise combustor based on RQL staged combustion

Abstract Employing rich-burn/quick-quench/lean-burn (RQL) staged combustion, a RP-3 fueled high temperature rise combustor was designed and tested. The outlet temperatures and the corresponding temperature rises were measured, which indicated that the high temperature rise combustor was realized. Using particle image velocimetry (PIV), high-speed photography and chemiluminescence imaging diagnostics, the flow and CH*/OH* chemiluminescence characteristics of the high temperature rise combustor were investigated. Comparison between non-reacting flow and reacting flow shows the thermal expansion and baroclinic effects caused by combustion could eliminate inner local recirculation region. Reaction happens intensively in the shear mixing region between the inner flow and the outer flow, as the droplet atomization and mix with air were enhanced by shearing effect. The momentum of jet is the dominating factor that affects flame structure. High momentum cold jet could enter the reaction zone and quench the flame.