EXPERIMENTAL STUDIES OF ENERGY CHARACTERISTICS OF A PLASMA-CHEMICAL INTENSIFIER

The aim of the study is to improve the efficiency of ignition and combustion processes of hydrocarbon fuels in low-emission combustion chambers of gas turbine engines by developing and investigating a plasma-chemical element equipped with a built-in low-current plasma generator.Method.The interaction between the fuel-air mixture and low-temperature plasma was modeled.A laboratory-scale experimental stand was developed to study the characteristics of the air plasma generator.A series of experimental measurements were conducted to evaluate electrical, thermal, and gas-dynamic parameters, including voltage-current characteristics and plasma jet length.Statistical data processing methods with error estimation were applied.Results.A plasma-chemical element with an integrated low-current air plasma generator was developed and manufactured.The generator's stable operating ranges were determined for currents from 0.1 to 0.9 A and power from 80 to 800 W. Voltage-current characteristics were obtained under various plasma-forming air flow rates.Effective ignition and fuel atomization at low power levels were demonstrated, and the influence of plasma on jet length was established.Scientific novelty.A novel design of a plasma-chemical element with crossflow channels was proposed and implemented to enhance the mixing and ignition efficiency of the fuel-air mixture.For the first time, a comprehensive experimental study of the energy characteristics of a plasma generator was conducted in the context of its application as a flame stabilizer in low-emission combustion chambers of gas turbine engines.Regularities of voltage-current characteristics under different plasma-forming air supply modes were identified, along with the influence of atomizing air on the arc breakdown voltage.The stable operating range of a low-current DC plasma torch, considering its design features, was experimentally determined for the first time.The results broaden the scientific understanding of the efficiency of plasma-chemical elements for combustion stabilization and can be utilized in further development of combustion systems for aviation and industrial gas turbines that comply with stricter environmental standards.Practical significance.The results of the experimental study confirm the feasibility of incorporating a plasma stabilizer into gas turbine combustion chamber designs to enhance combustion stability under lean fuel-air mixture conditions.The obtained data can be applied in the development and modernization of low-emission combustion chambers for power-generating gas turbines, as well as for optimizing startup modes and partial load operation.