In the pursuit of sustainable industrial practices, researchers are increasingly turning their attention to Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) systems to reduce the carbon footprint of gas turbine (GT) power generation. A recent study published in the journal “Applications in Energy and Combustion Science” by Gianmarco Lemmi from the Department of Industrial Engineering at the University of Florence, Italy, sheds light on a critical aspect of this technology: the challenge of maintaining flame stability under high Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) rates.
The study employs high-fidelity Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to perform a comprehensive Lean Blow-Out (LBO) analysis, aiming to identify burner designs that can operate effectively under highly CO2-diluted air conditions. This is a significant step forward in the quest to optimize GT-CCS coupling, as it allows for a detailed analysis of flow behaviors, mixing processes, flame structures, and stability thresholds within the combustor.
“Overcoming these challenges requires the development of novel technical solutions aimed at enhancing combustor performance under high EGR rates,” Lemmi explains. The study’s findings demonstrate the capability of CFD to identify unique blow-off dynamics that are challenging to observe experimentally, providing valuable insights for the energy sector.
The research utilizes an extended Flamelet Generated Manifold (FGM) turbulent combustion model, which has been previously validated for its accuracy and cost-effectiveness. This model allows for extensive simulations to assess flame stability across various burner designs and operating conditions, striking a balance between high accuracy and computational expenses.
The implications of this research are significant for the energy sector. By identifying burner designs that can extend the flame stability range under high EGR levels, the study paves the way for more efficient and sustainable GT-CCS systems. This could lead to a substantial reduction in the carbon footprint of power generation, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.
Moreover, the study’s findings could shape future developments in the field of natural gas combustion modeling and industrial lean-premixed burner design. As Lemmi notes, “The most effective design strategy for extending the flame stability range under high EGR levels has been highlighted,” a discovery that could drive innovation in burner technology.
In conclusion, this research represents a significant advancement in the field of sustainable energy, offering valuable insights that could help shape the future of power generation. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, studies like this one provide a beacon of hope, demonstrating the potential of technology and innovation to drive progress towards a more sustainable future.