Stabilized premixed combustion within atmospheric gas porous inert medium (PIM) burner

Abstract In this study, a modified technique based on the quenching region concept is proposed to enhance the flame stability within porous inert media (PIM). The new technique eliminates disadvantageous features inherent with this category of PIM combustion, such as the high-pressure drop and the continuous degradation of the quenching region. To demonstrate the validity of the proposed technique, the premixed combustion of liquefied petroleum gas and air in the fuel-lean range in PIM burner under atmospheric pressure was examined experimentally. Improved relevant longitudinal temperature profiles and low levels of NO x and CO emissions could be obtained throughout the entire range of operating conditions with no traces of flashback formation. The results also revealed an extension of the fuel-lean burning limit beyond what was typically ex-perienced in free-flame combustion systems. Eventually, the stronger and more robust proposed configuration permits the utilization of PIM combustion technology to cover a new and wider spectrum of practical applications.