Experimental characterization of a pressure swirl spray by analyzing the half cone angle fluctuation

Pressure swirl sprays are frequently used in burners for gas turbines like the LPP chamber or to generate diffusion flames. Combustion between fuel and the air is governed by complex phenomena determined by the mixing of the mass flow rate of the two phases liquid and gaseous. Characterization of the spray by measuring the half cone angle fluctuations with a speed camera and a Lagrangian approach allows the working space of the spray to be defined and the “signature” of the spray in well-defined conditions of supply pressure to be identified. The results define the pseudo-chaotic structure of the spray and highlight behavior affecting the combustion process.