Optimal Oven Heating of Coke Cake 3. Theory of Pulsating Combustion

Abstract

The formation of the combustion flame in the heating channels of coke batteries is considered. The changes in the flame configuration when water vapor is supplied to the heating channels are described. The associated formation and collapse of water-vapor bubbles disrupts the continuity of the medium, resulting in instantaneous interruption of the flame. Such discontinuity is known as pulsating combustion. As a result, the flame is extended, and the temperature distribution over the height of the coke chamber becomes more uniform. By adjusting the quantity of water vapor supplied, the degree of pulsation and hence the flame height may be regulated. In addition, the supply of water vapor to the heating channels is accompanied by decrease in the content of incomplete-combustion products such as oxides of nitrogen and carbon monoxide.