Brian Sutherland

Title: Brian Sutherland: Innovator in Combustion Technology

Introduction

Brian Sutherland is a notable inventor based in Chicago, IL, specializing in advanced combustion technologies. He has made significant contributions to the field with his innovative approaches to burning gaseous fuel mixtures. With a total of 2 patents, Sutherland's work focuses on enhancing combustion efficiency while reducing harmful emissions.

Latest Patents

Sutherland's latest patents include a "Method for surface stabilized combustion (SSC) of gaseous fuel/oxidant mixtures and a burner design thereof." This invention provides methods for burning combustible gas mixtures on a surface of a permeable matrix, which allows for surface stabilized combustion. The design aims to increase the radiation energy emitted by the surface while decreasing pollutant concentrations in the combustion products. The gas mixture is preheated as it travels through the permeable matrix material, and combustion occurs at or near exit pores and channels formed at the combustion surface. The surface is coated with a material that has lower thermal conductivity and high optical transmittance in the infrared spectrum.

Another significant patent is the "Porous metal foam burner." This gas burner features a gas distribution element covered by a metal foam matrix. A heat sink partially surrounds the metal foam matrix, allowing for effective venting of exhaust emissions. This innovative burner design results in reduced nitrous oxide and carbon monoxide emissions, along with improved heat transfer modes compared to traditional burner technologies.

Career Highlights

Brian Sutherland is currently employed at the Gas Technology Institute, where he continues to develop and refine his combustion technologies. His work is instrumental in advancing the efficiency and environmental performance of gas burners.

Collaborations

Sutherland collaborates with esteemed colleagues, including Michael Frank Johnson and Chakravarthy Sishtla, to further enhance the impact of his inventions in the field of combustion technology.

Conclusion

Brian Sutherland's contributions to combustion technology through his innovative patents demonstrate his commitment to improving energy efficiency and reducing emissions. His work at the Gas Technology Institute positions him as a key figure in the advancement of sustainable combustion solutions.