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Ignition model for spark discharges and the early phase of flame front growth

Conference · · Symp. (Int.) Combust., (Proc.); (United States)
OSTI ID:5384579

A thermal ignition model is derived, taking into account the nonstationary character of the ignition process. It is especially suited for applications such as in spark ignition, as shown by detailed experimental evidence of its main features and by test bench tests. Minimum ignition radii and ignition energies are calculted from basic flame data as well as the early stages of flame expansion. Using reasonable functions for the parameters involved in the theory, it is possible to account for the influences of equivalence ratio, flow or turbulence, preheating, mixture preparation etc. Lean ignition limits for glow discharge and breakdown mode are checked, and an excellent agreement between measured and calculated values is found. It is concluded that ignition energy is used only from the outer shell of the spark plasma. 22 refs.

Research Organization:
Univ Stuttgart, Germany
OSTI ID:
5384579
Report Number(s):
CONF-800809-
Journal Information:
Symp. (Int.) Combust., (Proc.); (United States), Journal Name: Symp. (Int.) Combust., (Proc.); (United States); ISSN SYMCA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English