Licensable Technologies : Physics & Chemistry : Synthesis

Vortex Combustion Chamber And Engine

Abstract
Scientists have created a means to create a vortex of air that travels longitudinally through a cylindrical combustion chamber. The vortex produces a low-pressure “eye” along the central longitudinal axis of the chamber to which fuel is introduced at the upstream end of the chamber. When ignited, the fuel and air form an ignition front along the interface between the central fuel-rich “eye” and the surrounding vortex of combustion air. This arrangement demonstrates stable combustion over a wide range of operating conditions (variable air/fuel ratios) without extinction of ignition.
Use of a vortex has many potential benefits. First, the highly turbulent combustion zone is likely to be a place where rapid burning and quick quenching could occur. These desirable characteristics are considered important to minimizing Nox generation. Efficiency gains are also expected. Elimination of a centrifugal compressor leads to elimination of the pressure producing step which requires diffusing the air. Gains are also expected from weight reductions due to elimination of the diffuser and nozzle guide vanes.

Application(s)
� Central station, industrial, and distributed power generation
� Aerospace
� Transportation

Advantages
� Stability, reliability � Efficiency gains in conventional turbines (increased energy conversion) � Simplifies small turbine engine design using a centrifugal compressor � Reduced emissions

IP Status: Available Exclusively

Reference Number: 190

S Number: DOE reference no.(s): 97,702

Patents & Applications:
Application(s) Pending

Posted: 09-16-2004

Contact
John Russell
Technology Transfer Division
Los Alamos National Laboratory
P.O. Box 1663, MailStop C334
(505) 665-3941
jrussell@lanl.gov