LA-2563 -- Performance of a Pulse Combustion Gas-Fired Water Heater

Research conducted with an experimental pulse combustion gas fired water heater is described. Thermal, pressure, acoustical, and flow measurements were obtained during each test run. An exhaust gas analysis was also performed during each test, and the thermal efficiency was determined. Two different combustion chambers were used, a single chamber and a split chamber. Pressure traces for both combustion chambers and the exhaust chamber were recorded as well as noise spectra for three locations in the vicinity of the unit. Although the split chamber configuration generally yielded higher thermal efficiencies, it was also found to emit higher levels of noise. An overall heat transfer coefficient was determined for each test run. These values suggest a sizable heat transfer enhancement as compared with the laminar flow non-pulsating case, and a lesser enhancement as compared with the turbulent flow non-pulsating case.

Citation: ASHRAE Transactions, Volume 86, Part 1, Los Angeles, California



Product Code(s): D-LA-2563