Study on flame propagation in a gas-explosion ash remover

Gas-explosion generators are used for ash removal in utility boilers. The operating principle involves pressure pulse being produced when a premixed combustible gas burns quickly in a tube with inside obstructions and a partially open end. The propagation of flame in the combustion chamber with four kinds of fuel (acetylene, water gas, liquefied petroleum gas and methane) was measured in the experimental apparatus. Flame speeds and pressure development were compared at various fuel/air equivalence ratios. Effects of blockage ratios on flame velocity were investigated. The experimental results are useful in providing some guidance for industrial application.