Early Stage Design of a Prefilmer at Siemens Energy : Numerical and Experimental Methodology

Abstract: Design of atomizers for gas-turbine purposes are an important ordeal. The per-formance of the atomizer directly impacts the efficiency of the gas-turbine, andconsequently, the energy extracted from the turbine. Furthermore, the design ofthe atomizer can have an impact on reducing toxic emissions. On a global scale,gas-turbines can be considered crucial for the transition to renewable energy. Forengineers, designing of atomizers are however challenging. Turbulent flow, multi-phase interaction and chemical reactions are some of the complex physics involvedwhich has to be taken into consideration when designing the atomizer. Engineerstraditionally uses experimental testing for investigation of designs, and it is still verymuch a useful methodology. However, numerical simulations and CFD have recentlygained popularity due to being a more cost-effective methodology. In this work, theprocedure for designing a prefilm atomizer involving CFD (single phase model andmulti phase model) and experimental testing is documented. The details of the twonumerical models (a single phase model and a multi phase model) has been doc-umented as well as the experimental setup. The single phase model is used for aparametric study and experimental testing is used for evaluation of designs. Themulti phase model is aimed to replicate the experimental results. The validity ofthe numerical models and the experimental setup are discussed, and possible mod-ifications of the methodology for future studies are suggested. Finally, suggestionsfor how the prefilmer should be designed is suggested.