Experimental analysis of flashback in lean premixed swirling flames: conditions close to flashback

Swirling lean premixed flames are of practical relevance due to their potential for low nitric oxide (NOx) emissions. Unfortunately, these flames have various drawbacks. One critical attribute is the possibility for flashback of the reacting flow into the nozzle. Advanced numerical simulations should be able in the future to predict the transition from stable flames to flashback. For a better understanding of the process itself and for validation of numerical simulation a well-documented generic benchmark experiment is needed. This study presents a burner configuration that has already been studied extensively in the past. By minor geometrical adaptations, and via the possibility to vary the swirl intensity in a controlled way, the transition from stable flames to flashback is now accessible to detailed characterisation using advanced laser diagnostics. In a first part of this study the different states of the flame were classified. In the second part, both a stable and a precessing flame very close to flash back were compared in terms of flow and scalar field. The variation of the swirl intensity on the flame is discussed. Because the flame is strongly influenced by its inflow conditions additional velocity measurements inside the nozzle were carried out. This is of special importance for subsequent numerical simulations to match the experimental conditions. The quantitative investigation of the flame during flashback is subjected to consecutive experiments where planar laser diagnostics at high repetition rates will be exploited.