Large eddy simulation of turbulent combustion systems

This paper reviews recent and ongoing work on numerical models for turbulent combustion systems based on a classical LES approach. The work is confined to single-phase reacting flows. First, important physico-chemical features of combustion-LES are discussed along with several aspects of overall LES models. Subsequently, some numerical issues, in particular questions associated with the reliability of LES results, are outlined. The details of chemistry, its reduction, and tabulation are not addressed here. Second, two illustrative applications dealing with non-premixed and premixed flame configurations are presented. The results show that combustion-LES is able to provide predictions very close to measured data for configurations where the flow is governed by large turbulent structures. To meet the future demands, new key challenges in specific modelling areas are suggested, and opportunities for advancements in combustion-LES techniques are highlighted. From a predictive point of view, the main target must be to provide a reliable method to aid combustion safety studies and the design of combustion systems of practical importance.