Theoretical and experimental investigation of igniter function

Igniters are elements of ignition system of granular propellant charges which have to give energetic impulse to charge, which is prescribed in time and space. in this work two-phase flow of black powder grains and their combustion products in the igniter is modelled. The model is comprised from balance equations of mass, momentum and energy for both phases and appropriate constitutive laws. The two-phase flow through igniter side holes is also considered. The numerical procedure including method of control volumes is developed. Experimental results, which consist of measurement of flamespreading velocity and pressure in the igniter working in open air. are compared with the computational results. The good agreement between them is achieved. The model enables the calculation of parameters which define time and space distribution of ignition impulse. Using developed model we can optimise the igniter design.