Predicting NOx Distribution in a Micro Rich–Quench–Lean Combustor Using a Variational Autoencoder

Micro gas turbines are widely used in distributed power generation systems. However, the combustion of gas turbine combustors produces a large amount of nitrogen oxides (NOx), which pollute the environment and endanger human life. To reduce environmental pollution, low-emission combustors have been developed. In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on the use of low-heat-value gas fuels, and it is necessary to study the NOx emissions from low heat value gas fuel combustors. Data-driven deep learning methods have been used in many fields in recent years. In this study, a variational autoencoder was introduced for the prediction of NOx production inside the combustor. The combustor used was a micro rich–quench–lean combustor designed by the research group using coal bed gas as a fuel. The internal NO distribution contour was obtained as the dataset using simulation methods, with a size of 60 images. The model architecture parameters were obtained through hyperparameter exploration using the grid search method. The model accurately predicted the distribution of NO inside the combustor. The method can be applied in the prediction of a wider range of parameters and offers a new way of designing combustors for the power industry.