skip to main content
OSTI.GOV title logo U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Title: Development of a pulse combustion space heater. Annual report Mar 82-May 83

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:7065541

A prototype model of a low-cost, high efficiency pulse combustion space heater was developed that operated satisfactorily and had a steady state thermal efficiency approaching 92 percent. The unit operates in a condensing mode and heat transfer occurrs from a combustion chamber, exhaust pipe and a secondary heat exchanger. The design operates at 18,000 Btu/hr, utilizes outdoor air for combustion and vents the flue products directly outdoors in a manner similar to conventional direct vent appliances. An oval-shaped burner is selected as being most promising from an operational standpoint and the ability to physically fit within the confines of a contemporary sized or smaller cabinet. Further development work leading to the construction of advanced prototypes is planned. A field test of ten units to characterize the operational characteristics and user acceptance of the appliance is scheduled for the 1983-84 heating season. The space heater will benefit both the consumer and the gas industry by providing a space heating appliance that has efficiencies approaching those of unvented gaseous and liquid fueled heaters without the disadvantages of venting combustion products into the conditioned area.

Research Organization:
American Gas Association Labs., Cleveland, OH
OSTI ID:
7065541
Report Number(s):
PB-84-175033
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English