Theoretical Lagrangian particles interacting with a turbulent flame structure.

Turbulent Combustion

A major theme in the Experimental Engines Lab is the development of physics-based models for turbulent combustion that can be used in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Our work in this area attempts to measure these processes with as much fidelity and as close to engine-relevant conditions as possible. In doing so, we collaborate closely with scientists running very large-scale Direct Numerical Simulations (DNS) and Large Eddy Simulations (LES) at major national labs in the US and Europe.

A particular specialty of our lab is the application of multi-dimensional, time resolved measurement techniques and advanced data mining algorithms. We recently achieved the first simultaneous 4D velocity/scalar measurements in turbulent flames. As part of this, we also have developed novel data mining algorithms based on inserting conceptual Lagrangian tracer particles into the experimentally measured velocity fields. The Lagrangian tracers allow evaluation of several metrics of the reaction rate that have never before been experimentally accessible. Such data are essential for determining how local features of the flame and scalar field affect the reaction rate, which is needed for accurate closure of chemical source terms in the governing equations.