Effect of flow uniformity on the reaction characteristics of a catalytic combustor for high temperature
fuel cell system has been experimentally investigated in the present study. One of the most important factor
in designing catalytic combustion is to avoid hot spot in catalysts. In this regard, it is very important to
secure flow uniformity of combustor inlet. A couple of perforated plates were applied at the front of catalyst
region as flow uniformity device with minimal pressure drop. Results show that the velocity and temperature
profile became more uniform when applying the flow uniformity device. CO and CH_4 emissions at the
combustor exit were decreased and the average exit temperature was slightly increased with the flow
uniformity device.