A data-driven model for NO(x), CO and UHC emissions for a dry low emissions gas turbine combustor

Abstract

Experimental emissions data from a combustor test rig, along with physical and chemical time scale arguments, are used to guide the development of emissions models for NOX, CO and unburned hydrocarbons (UHC). These submodels include flame-front and postflame formation and oxidation processes and are implemented in a partially-premixed laminar flamelet combustion model. Comparison with experimental data indicates that the major mechanism for CO and UHC emissions is lengthening of the turbulent flame brush, accompanied by local flame quenching. At the lower flame temperatures studied, NOx formation predominantly occurs within the primary reaction zone of the laminar flamelet followed by a slower post-flame reaction (thermal NOx). At higher temperatures, the thermal NOx mechanism dominates.