Session: 08-01: Poster Session

Paper Number: 149595

149595 - Modeling Dual Fuel Combustion in a Heavy-Duty Diesel Engine Fueled With Diesel and Natural Gas 

Abstract: 

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling of combustion allows for a granular understanding of in-cylinder processes in an internal combustion engine. By studying low-carbon alternative fuels in CFD simulations, novel fueling strategies can be explored and the most promising strategies can be retained for experiments. Thus, it is important to create high-quality CFD models to complement experiments with alternative fuels.

In this project, we developed a CFD model to simulate dual fuel combustion on a heavy-duty single-cylinder research engine (SCRE) based on the PACCAR MX-11 series platform using the Converge CFD software. The CFD model was validated for dual fuel combustion involving a premixed natural gas-air mixture ignited by directly injected high-pressure diesel sprays. The model was further refined by reverse-engineering air intake and exhaust geometries to accurately capture turbulent mixing of natural gas and air in the intake as well as the residual exhaust gas trapped inside the cylinder. With accurate intake and exhaust geometries, the model was validated with experimental cylinder pressure and heat release rate (HRR) histories for dual fuel combustion.

While dual fuel combustion results in reduced oxides of nitrogen and carbon dioxide emissions, a known trade-off is the propensity for high unburned hydrocarbon emissions, especially at low engine loads. The present work focuses on utilizing the validated model to characterize the engine performance and emissions evolution at selected engine operating conditions. Additional insight is drawn from model results regarding effective strategies for improving engine efficiency and for mitigating engine-out emissions.

 

 

Presenting Author: Joseph Semler The University of Alabama

Presenting Author Biography: Joseph Semler is an undergraduate student studying mechanical engineering and mathematics at The University of Alabama. He has worked under Dr. Kalyan Srinivasan in ICE modeling for two years.

Authors:

Joseph Semler The University of Alabama
Hariraja Thothadri The University of Alabama
Abhinandhan Narayanan The University of Alabama
Kalyan Srinivasan The University of Alabama
Sundar Krishnan The University of Alabama