Optimization of Multiple Jets Mixing With a Confined Crossflow

Abstract

An experimental investigation of a non-reacting multiple jet mixing with a confined crossflow has been conducted. Flow and geometric conditions were varied in order to examine favourable parameters for mixing. The requirement for a rapid and intense mixing process originates from combustion applications, especially the RQL-combustion concept. Thus, the jets were perpendicularly injected out of one opposed row of circular orifices into a heated crossflow in a rectangular duct. Spacing and hole size were varied within the ranges referring to combustor applications. The results presented are restricted to an inline orientation of opposed jet axis. Temperature distribution, mixing rate and standard deviation were determined at discrete downstream locations. Best i.e. uniform mixing can be observed strongly depending on momentum flux ratio. For all geometries investigated an optimum momentum flux ratio yields to a homogeneous temperature distribution in the flowfield downstream of the injection plane. Too high ratios deteriorate the mixing process due to the mutual impact of the opposed entraining jets along with a thermal stratification of the flowfield. Correlations are introduced describing the dependency of optimum momentum flux ratio on mixing hole geometry. They allow the optimization of jet-in-crossflow mixing processes in respect to uniform mixing.