Laser Ignition
CFDRC is actively pursuing the use of fiber optically-delivered, dual pulse laser plasmas for the
ignition of a wide variety of automotive, industrial and aerospace applications. CFDRC and Los Alamos
hold a joint patent on the development and application of the Dual-Pulse Laser Induced Spark (DPLIS)
ignition system. Applications for which this technology has been considered include:
- Cold start for diesel engines
- Gas turbine engines
- Industrial incinerators
- Propellant ignition in artillery pieces
- Flame stabilization for scramjet engines
- Rocket engine chambers
Advantages of this technology over current ignition systems:
- Safe and environmentally friendly
- Offers re-light capability
- Can project ignition spark some distance away from wall
The figure below shows a rocket engine test firing initiated by the CFDRC/LANL laser system.
|
