Visualization of Shear Layer Dynamics in a Transversely Forced Flow and Flame

Abstract

This study addresses the response of a swirling annular jet flow and flame to transverse acoustic excitation in order to better describe key velocity-coupled processes during transverse combustion instabilities in lean, premixed flames. In particular, visualization and velocimetry techniques provide information about the effects of acoustic excitation on unsteady vortex development in the shear layers. Without acoustic forcing, the shear layers roll up into small vortices, driven by the Kelvin–Helmholtz instability, that convect downstream and grow. In the presence of high-amplitude acoustic forcing, as would be present during a combustion instability, the acoustic oscillations drive shear layer vortices to undergo a strong rollup event. Smoke visualization provides visual evidence of the rollup, while particle image velocimetry measurements show the development and trajectory of this large structure. Finally, planar laser-induced fluorescence of OH shows how the large coherent structure causes flame wrinkling at the base of the flame. The vortex rollup, responding at the frequency of acoustic forcing, creates large-scale wrinkles on the flame and can be the main driver of flame response during combustion instability.