Combustor testing

[tinkertim]

I was wondering if output of an air compressor would allow for any realistic testing of flame tube/combustor designs ?   Not quite ready to invest in a turbo but would like to experiment with the combustor burning propane.  I know I could use a leaf blower but was curious about the air compressor due to noise since I'm a bit of a night owl.  Also contemplated a clear mock up and injecting red smoke for fuel and white for air, my interest is in how they will mix, turbulence etc with various swirler designs.

My future plans are for an st50 sized producer for a shaft driven kart so I would like to work on one to that scale.


Thanks.

[racket]

A good sized electric vacuum cleaner exhaust set to "blow" will produce better results than an air compressor as the "volume" flow will be more representative

[Johansson]

Hi!

It is a bit of a challenge to get useful data out of atmospheric combustor tests, the main thing is to closely monitor the outlet temp and not let it go higher than 900c or whatever temp you plan to have as turbine inlet temperature later.

Without any pressure in the combustor you won't be able to run much fuel through it before it start to act like a flame thrower, that is why you need to check the outlet temps.

It is also important to get a good flow of air through the combustor, so using an air compressor is not recommended. Some sort of high volume fan is preferable.

Looking forward to a turboshaft gocart project! :-)

Cheers!
/Anders

[tinkertim]

Had not thought of shop vac, have a nice sized one with output. I did consider lack of pressure, would restrict output a bit with a manifold if needed until I am ready to source a turbo.

Thanks for the replies. Have seen videos of work you both have done, quite impressive.