The Eddy Dissipation Concept—Analysis of Different Fine Structure Treatments for Classical Combustion

The Eddy Dissipation Concept (EDC) is common in modeling turbulent combustion. Several model improvements have been proposed in literature; recent modifications aim to extend its validity to Moderate or Intense Low oxygen Dilution (MILD) conditions. In general, the EDC divides a fluid into a reacting and a non-reacting part. The reacting part is modeled as perfectly stirred reactor (PSR) or plug flow reactor (PFR). EDC theory suggests PSR treatment, while PFR treatment provides numerical advantages. Literature lacks a thorough evaluation of the consequences of employing the PFR fine structure treatment. Therefore, these consequences were evaluated by employing tests to isolate the effects of the EDC variations and fine structure treatment and by conducting a Sandia Flame D modeling study. Species concentration as well as EDC species consumption/production rates were evaluated. The isolated tests revealed an influence of the EDC improvements on the EDC rates, which is prominent at low shares of the reacting fluid. In contrast, PSR and PFR differences increase at large fine fraction shares. The modeling study revealed significant differences in the EDC rates of intermediate species. Summarizing, the PFR fine structure treatment might be chosen for schematic investigations, but for detailed investigations a careful evaluation is necessary.