Modeling edge flame propagation in a stratified fuel gas-air mixture

Edge flame (EF) propagation in propane-air mixture stratified in the gravitational field has been physically modeled. Experiments in a rectangular channel open at one end have been used to study the formation of zones of flame propagation. It is established that the EF only propagates within a narrow region of the channel, the width of which depends on the initial mixture composition and the time for which its stratification takes place. The gas mixture composition in this zone varies from the lower to upper limit of the ignition concentration. It is found that the local maximum temperature of the EF varies along its surface and the flame oscillates at the Brunt-Vaisala frequency.