Numerical simulation of diffusion flames with and without magnetic field

Numerical computations are made of axisymmetric laminar hydrogen diffusion flames, focusing on the unsteady behavior under microgravity and the effects of magnetic field. In the microgravity without magnetic field, it is revealed that combustion products remain around the diffusion flame because of the lack of convection, and the amount of O₂ diffusion to the flame region becomes retarded. When a gradient magnetic field is added, convection is induced around the diffusion flame by the magnetic field which induces magnetic buoyancy force due to the inhomogeneity of magnetic susceptibility. The flow configuration formed by the magnetic force under microgravity is similar to that under the normal gravity without the magnetic field.