PREDICTIONS OF TURBULENT, PREMIXED FLAME PROPAGATION IN EXPLOSION TUBES

A mathematical model capable of predicting the overpressures generated by gaseous explosions is described. The model is based on solutions o f the fluid flow equations obtained using a second-order accurate, fin ite-volume integration scheme coupled to an adaptive grid algorithm. T urbulence generated ahead of a propagating flame is modelled using a k -epsilon approach, whilst the premixed combustion process is described using a semiempirical method which admits both chemical kinetic and f low field influences on the burning velocity of a flame, while also ma intaining realistic flame thicknesses throughout the course of a flame 's propagation. Comparison of model predictions and experimental data obtained in a large-scale cylindrical vessel containing turbulence-ind ucing rings, reported in the literature, demonstrate the ability of th e model to provide reasonable predictions of propagating turbulent pre mixed flames which interact with obstacles, and the resulting generati on of damaging overpressures. In total, the modeling techniques descri bed offer the potential for ultimate application to predicting the beh avior of explosions in realistic, three-dimensional geometries.