Complex physical interactions which characterize reacting flows have precluded the development of a generalized combustor design methodology. State-of-the-art numerical models are limited in their ability to perform economical engineering estimates or to evaluate innovative system concepts. Consequently, the design of high performance combustors relies heavily on an experience data base, extensive testing, and empirically based estimates of performance. Energy International has developed a direct simulation mixing and chemical reaction processes with a stochastic model. It is proposed that the model be applied to analyze a laminar flame and compare the numerical results with existing experimental data to gain confidence in the model. Furthermore, the full-simulation code will be adapted to the parallel-processing architecture. The modified simulation code will be implemented in a multi-processor workstation network to provide an economical design tool for the industry. The application of these concepts will provide an acceptable engineering approximation to actual finite-rate mixing and chemical reaction in reacting flows, a practical alternative to the use of more sophisticated numerical method, and an essential capability for the design of next-generation combustion systems.
