LASER SCATTERING MEASUREMENTS FOR GAS DENSITIES IN A SWIRLING FLOW COMBUSTOR

Data in the form of mean and rms gas density profiles, mean methane profiles, and selected gas density probability density functions and power spectral densities obtained by laser-induced Rayleigh and Raman scattering measurements in the primary zone of a premixed, swirling flow combustor are presented and discussed. Results are obtained with good repeatability (approximately 6% for Raman and 4% for Rayleigh time-averaged measurements) and with good accuracy (approximately 3%). Along with previously obtained velocity data, the data from scattering measurements are used to determine the region of chemical reaction relative to regions of flow recirculation and shear. Comparisons with previously obtained probe data for temperature and methane concentration indicate that probes may be unrealiable for measurements in swirling flows.