This study applies
experimental methods to investigate the partially
premixed ignition characteristics of a bluff-body flameholder with
a pilot stage. The ignition fuel–air ratio (FAR) under different
igniter and inlet conditions is obtained, while the ignition process
is recorded with a high-speed photography device. Numerical simulations
are carried out to investigate the relationship between the flow field,
fuel distribution, and ignition process. The results show that a higher
total capacitance energy storage of the igniter, inlet Mach number,
or total pressure inside the combustion chamber will help increase
the ignition performance, accelerate the development of the flame,
and shorten the ignition delay. The flame propagation routine of the
flameholder is controlled by several pairs of symmetrical recirculation
zones behind the flameholder structure and the specific uneven fuel
distribution caused by the flow field. This study provides a detailed
understanding of the ignition process for the bluff-body flameholder.