Michael S Klassen

Title: **Michael S. Klassen: Innovating Jet Fuel Solutions from Columbia, MD**

Introduction

Michael S. Klassen, an accomplished inventor based in Columbia, MD, has made significant contributions to the field of combustion science with a portfolio of 14 patents. His work primarily focuses on developing advanced methodologies for optimizing fuel efficiency and emissions in propulsion systems.

Latest Patents

Among his latest inventions, Klassen has developed two noteworthy patents. The first is titled "Computationally Efficient Reduced Kinetics Methodologies for Jet Fuels." This innovative method facilitates the creation of optimized reduced kinetics models tailored for specific operating conditions. It significantly enhances the speed of kinetics evaluation in turbulent-chemistry coupling during computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. The tool's capabilities include predicting ignition and flameholding phenomena, which are vital for various propulsion systems, particularly in gas turbine applications. Furthermore, this methodology incorporates a lumped-parameterization-based optimization scheme that can generate multi-step quasi-global kinetics models using laminar flame speed as target data. It also extends to optimizing emission predictions for pollutants like carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen oxides (NO).

The second patent, "Method and Apparatus for Conditioning Liquid Hydrocarbon Fuels," presents a novel approach to vaporizing liquid fuels. In one embodiment, the method involves spraying liquid into a chamber without allowing the spray to touch any surface, utilizing a hot diluent such as nitrogen or oxygen-depleted air to facilitate vaporization. Alternatively, liquid can be sprayed onto a heated surface, ensuring that the entire spray is intercepted, thus achieving flash vaporization of the droplets. The design also allows for the control of the dew point of the resulting vapor phase mixture by incorporating a carrier gas flow through the vaporizer.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Michael S. Klassen has played a pivotal role in the development of combustion technologies. He has worked with reputable companies such as LPP Combustion, LLC, and Combustion Science & Engineering, Inc., where he contributed his expertise in optimizing fuel combustion processes and emissions control.

Collaborations

Klassen has collaborated with notable professionals in the field, including Richard J. Roby and Christopher F. Schemel. Their combined efforts have accelerated advancements in combustion science and the practical applications of innovative fuel technologies.

Conclusion

Michael S. Klassen's contributions through his patents exemplify his dedication to innovation in the field of combustion technology. His work not only addresses the immediate needs of the propulsion industry but also lays the groundwork for a future with cleaner and more efficient fuels. As an inventor, Klassen continues to drive forward the evolution of combustion methodologies, ensuring that advancements benefit both industry and the environment.