Large eddy simulations of combustion instabilities in a swirled combustor

Modern gas turbine combustors feature pressure oscillations with relatively high amplitude levels. This dynamical behavior may lead to flashback or flame blow-out and it is generally unacceptable. This article is concerned with the simulation of this type of unstable behavior. Realistic geometrical data are used and unsteady computations are carried out and compared to experimental data gathered on a model scale system developed by Cambridge University. Calculations described in this article indicate that it is possible to simulate the dynamical behavior of the flame in this type of combustor.