Heat release rate calculation in oxygen consumption calorimetry

Heat release rates of burning combustibles in bench-scale, medium-scale and large-scale experiments are now commonly measured by the oxygen consumption method. As the equations commonly used in the literature might not be appropriate for some conditions, a general equation including mole fractions of six components on nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, soot and water vapor is presented in this paper. Difference in flow rates between the intake and exhaust gases is introduced for correction on incomplete combustion. The general equation can be simplified easily as other expressions under various conditions. Application of the equations for some special environments is illustrated. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.