Numerical simulation of flowfield in a multi-swirler array lean direct injection combustor

The flowfield in a lean direct injection(LDI) combustor with co-rotating multi-swirler array was investigated using Reynolds stress model(RSM) computationally.The computational results indicate that the recirculation zones generated by nine swirlers deform and decay rapidly,and a unified and large swirling flow is formed far downstream of the swirler array.The existence of recirculation zones and strong turbulence levels indicate the potential for excellent combustion performance and low NO_x emissions.The RSM-computed results were compared with laser doppler velocimeter(LDV) measurements.The results indicate that the RSM accurately describes most of the flow characteristics,contributing to solve recirculation zones and high velocity gradients.