Авіаційно-космічна техніка та технологія (May 2025)
Experimental studies of a plasma enhancer for a dual-fuel gas turbine combustion chamber
Abstract
Purpose. This study investigates the characteristics of a low-current plasma intensifier operating with air as the plasma-forming medium and the supply of a liquid phase simulating fuel, for potential application in dual-fuel gas turbine combustion chambers. Method. A test rig was assembled, comprising a plasma-chemical element, air and water supply systems, and measuring instruments. Measurements were carried out using both direct methods (current, voltage, and flow rate measurements) and indirect methods (weighing water, visually observing of the plasma jet). The effects of plasma-forming air flow rate, additional air, and liquid supply on the arc breakdown and the stable operating zone of the generator were examined. Results. The volt-ampere characteristic exhibited a steeply declining trend under all operating modes. When atomizing air and water were supplied, the arc breakdown voltage increased proportionally to the flow rates of the media. The stable arc combustion zone expanded from 0.1–0.9 A to 0.3–0.9 A with the introduction of additional air and water. The maximum arc voltage with additional air reached 1.2 kV. Scientific novelty. The influence of water supply as a liquid fuel simulant on arc breakdown and stability in a low-current air plasma torch was experimentally investigated for the first time. The expansion of the stable operating range of the generator used in dual-fuel combustion chambers was established. Stable operation was maintained within the current range of 0.1 to 0.9 A, with a plasma-forming air flow rate of up to 1.6 g/s. When additional atomizing air was introduced, the minimum operating current increased to 0.3 A. Practical significance. The results of the study can be used to improve the design of dual-fuel gas turbine combustion chambers, ensure their reliable operation during fuel switching, and support the development of more efficient plasma-chemical combustion intensifiers.
Keywords
