Development and Demonstration of Engine-Ready Surface-Stabilized Combustion System

Alzeta Corporation has developed surface-stabilized fuel injectors for use in lean-premixed low-emissions combustion systems. These injectors use a patented technique to form interacting high-flow and low-flow flame zones immediately above a selectively-perforated porous metal surface. This allows stable operation at low reaction temperatures conducive for preventing high NOx formation. Solar Turbines and Alzeta had previously worked together to evaluate single-injector and full-scale proof-of-concept test hardware. This paper presents results of a combustion system developed for evaluation on an engine. The next-generation hardware has evolved to include a pilot to handle low engine speeds, and flow circuits have been adjusted to meet low-pressure drop requirements. Screening tests of the full-scale system have been completed at simulated engine conditions in a full-scale rig. Single-digit NOx and CO emissions have been achieved without encountering combustion-driven instabilities. The combustion system demonstrated adequate power turndown with the assistance of the pilot module, and studies to predict the service life of burners have been initiated.