Method and apparatus for increasing radiant heat production of hydrocarbon fuel combustion systems
US4995805A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 24, 1989 |
| Grant date | Feb 26, 1991 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 24, 2009 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E20/30
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus for increasing radiant heat production of hydrocarbon fuel combustion systems are provided. In one aspect, the apparatus includes a pair of spaced electrodes through which a hydrocarbon fuel gas is flowed. An electrica arc is struck across the electrode gap to pyrolyze a portion of the hydrocarbon fuel gas, leading to the formation of carbonaceous heat radiative bodies which are entrained in the hydrocarbon fuel gas stream. In the presence of an oxidant gas such as air, a turbulent diffusion flame is created having an increased luminous radiant heat output, an improved turn-down ratio, increased flame stability, and reduced nitric oxide emissions. The method and apparatus are particularly adapted to increasing the luminous radiant output of hydrocarbon fuels having a low carbon-to-hydrogen ratio such as natural gas. In another aspect, a method and apparatus are provided by which the accumulation of pyrolytically formed carbonaceous bodies on an electrode during the pyrolysis of a hydrocarbon gas is effectively prevented by a secondary gas jet. In still another aspect, the present invention provides a method and apparatus for controlling the rate at which heat…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.