Improved Heat Release Model for Augmentor Screech Characterization

The Air Force has identified a need for improved design tools for augmentor performance. In the near term, it is apparent that reduced order models are needed in order to assist in the design process by providing engineering estimates of combustion instability. One key area that requires effort is the area of screech modeling. A critical aspect of any model that attempts to predict screech is the correct representation of the dynamic heat release rate. In this Phase I SBIR, Energy Research Consultants and its partner, Georgia Institute of Technology will join together to 1) develop a reduced order heat release model, and 2) conduct experiments in augmentor like conditions to validate the model. Georgia Tech’s experience with combustion oscillations combined with unique experimental facilities at ERC will provide the right combination of resources to efficiently develop the design tool needed. Based on success with the Phase I efforts, in Phase II, transverse mode instabilities will be incorporated along with non-homogeneous mixtures (both single and two phase). These conditions, along with the longitudinal modes already demonstrated in Phase I, will provide a wide range of data against which to validate the modeling approach.