Numerical analysis of entropy generation in a turbulent diffusion flame

Thermodynamic irreversibilities generated by the combustion process are evaluated and analyzed numerically. The numerical simulation is performed for a reference case study for which experimental data are available in the literature: diffusion flame properties in a common burner configuration are studied by the Fluent software with the standard k–ε turbulence model and two-step chemical reaction. The study quantifies the contribution of each mechanism to entropy generation, i.e., friction, heat conduction, species diffusion, and chemical reaction. The chemical reaction and heat conduction are found to be the major sources of entropy production. Preheating of air reduces thermodynamic irreversibilities within the combustor.