Low Temperature Combustion Diesel Engines

Diesel engines are the most common type of internal combustion engines due to their prolific usage in the transportation and power generation industries. This widespread use has led to a large push within the engine industry to improve emissions and efficiencies through novel combustion methods. Low temperature combustion methods have shown great promise in the ability to decrease nitric oxide and soot emissions from diesel engines. This study develops an engine model for the analysis of low temperature combustion operating modes within a diesel engine. It is used to conduct parametric studies on the use of exhaust gas recirculation and injection timing to determine the most efficient combinations for low temperature combustion. A challenge associated with low temperature combustion is increased pressure rise rates inside the cylinder. This can cause increased engine noise and possible damage to the cylinder. This study also analyzes methods that decrease the cylinder pressure rise rates that can be present during low temperature combustion. All of this combined allows for an efficient low temperature combustion mode that leads to decreased emissions for engine applications.

Autorentext

Jonathan Breen received his bachelor's and master's degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Texas A&M University. He studied combustion science and internal combustion engines and currently works as a product design engineer at Tenaris, a manufacturer of steel casing and tubing. He is an avid hiker and golfer who lives with his wife in Houston, TX.