Numerical investigation of the potential of using hydrogen as an alternative fuel in an industrial burner

<p dir="ltr">This study investigates hydrogen and hydrogen-methane mixtures as alternative fuels for industrial burners, focusing on combustion dynamics, flame stability, and emissions. CFD simulations in ANSYS Fluent utilized the RANS framework with the k-ε turbulence model and the mixture fraction/PDF approach. Supporting Python scripts and Cantera-based kinetic modeling employing the GRI-Mech 3.0 mechanism and Zeldovich pathways analyzed equivalence ratios (<i>Φ</i>), adiabatic flame temperatures (T_<em>ad</em> ), and NO_x formation mechanisms. Results revealed non-linear temperature trends, with a 50% hydrogen blend yielding the lowest peak temperature (1880 K) and a 75% hydrogen blend achieving optimal performance, balancing peak temperatures (∼1900 K), reduced NO_x emissions (5.39 × 10^-6), and near-zero CO₂ emissions (0.137), though flame stability was impacted by rich mixtures. Pure hydrogen combustion produced the highest peak temperature (2080 K) and NO_x emissions (3.82 × 10-5), highlighting the need for NO_x mitigation strategies. Mass flow rate (MFR) adjustments and excess air variation significantly influenced emissions, with a 25% MFR increase reducing NOx to 2.8 × 10^-5, while higher excess air (e.g.,30%) raised NO_x under lean conditions. Statistical analysis identified <i>Φ</i>, hydrogen content (H₂%), and flame stability as key factors, with 50%–75% hydrogen blends minimizing emissions and optimizing performance, emphasizing hydrogen’s potential with controlled MFR and air adjustments.</p><h2>Other Information</h2><p dir="ltr">Published in: Fuel<br>License: <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/" target="_blank">http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/</a><br>See article on publisher's website: <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.fuel.2024.134194" target="_blank">https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.fuel.2024.134194</a></p>