As future requirements lead toward compact, efficient engine designs, conventional gas turbine component design methodology will become more integrated to provide higher performance systems. Several concepts are being explored to obtain lighter weight, more efficient, lower fuel consumption combustors. One example of this integration of components is the Rotating Detonation Engine (RDE). In this configuration, fuel and air are mixed and detonated to enhance residence time without the need for axial length. Research areas have focused on the combustion mechanisms within the channel and how to cool the walls to enable long run times. With optical diagnostics such as Chemiluminescence imaging, PIV, and PLIF in place in the laboratory, the capability to completely understand these complex burning configurations exist. Future efforts will continue to understand the integration issues with the compressor and turbine. Different configurations continue to be investigated.

Another research area focuses on the combustion process in small engines used in Remotely Piloted Aircraft. These investigations have focused on attempting to understand the impact of the inlet flow conditions, namely the altitude effects, that can impede the performance of these small IC engines. An altitude chamber has been built that enables control of the pressure and temperature within and around the engine. Investigations into fuel injection, timing, and heavy fuels are possible to understand the performance and the specific fuel consumption of the engine.

 

key words

Combustion; Gas turbines; Turbine heat transfer; Optical diagnostics; Air breathing-propulsion; Rotating Detonation Engines; Combustor; Small engines for RPAs;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral and Senior applicants

Additional Benefits

Relocation

Awardees who reside more than 50 miles from their host laboratory and remain on tenure for at least six months are eligible for paid relocation to within the vicinity of their host laboratory.

Health insurance

A group health insurance program is available to awardees and their qualifying dependents in the United States.