Heat Transfer Experiments on a Pulsed Detonation Driven Radial Turbine Exhaust

摘要

Experimental results are presented for an investigation of exhaust flow downstream of an unsteady radial turbine powered by pulsed detonation combustion (PDC). Recent research has been conducted on the increased performance of pulsed detonation combustors over constant pressure combustors found in conventional gas turbine engines, specifically with regard to thrust and fuel consumption. Previous experimental work at the Air Force Research Lab demonstrated improved specific power output from a Garrett GT2860RS automotive turbocharger driven by PDC versus steady deflagration combustion (SDC). The current objective examines the enthalpy in the exhaust flow of a T3 journal bearing turbo driven by a PDC. Exhaust measurements are made for pulsed detonation combustor with and without a turbocharger. Enthalpy measurements are necessary to provide a means of validation for previously determined high speed measurements and would also aid in evaluating efficiency of turbochargers when integrated with PDCs. This includes a discussion of the relationship between turbine performance and PDC operating parameters.