Experimental comparison of vertical buoyant plume dynamics produced by pre-mixed and diffusion flames and Aspen wood wool combustion*

A further understanding of turbulent plume dynamics produced from wood combustion is desirable to aid wildfire management and prevention and prescribed burn efficiency. Plume dynamics from Aspen wood wool combustion are compared to those created from pre-mixed and diffusion gas combustion. Multiple gas burner configurations are employed, allowing for varying plume structures. As wood combustion is transient, wood wool is packed into cylindrical shell geometries to encourage a steadier burn. Data is gathered via shadowgraph imaging utilizing a large-scale retroreflective screen at the USDA Forest Products Laboratory. Convective velocities are readily obtained by tracking the movement of density fluctuations and turbulent eddies in the plume. Analysis of the stability of these plumes is discussed.