Experimental study on flame stability characteristics of porous medium bluff-bodies

Porous media were investigated for the preparation of flame holders, for porous medias permeability and dispersivity can bring down pressure loss and improve the ratio of fuel and air after the bluff-bodies. Based on the comparative trials of a solid bluff-body and another two with 10PPI (pores per inch） and 40PPI, respectively, it was found that the porous media flame holder can have a wider range of flame stability. Under the same fuel and air co-flow conditions, a porous medium makes burning more complete, and the flame more rigid. The recirculation zone of a solid bluff-body is closer to the bluff-body and the back flow intensity is stronger than that of a body made of porous media. Hence, considering the pressure loss and the effects of fuel and air mixing, an appropriate diameter of porous media is the key to stabilizing flames.