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One-dimensional (1-D) unsteady gas dynamic models of a number of common muffler (or silencer) elements have been incorporated into a1-D simulation code to predict the impact of the muffler on the gas dynamics within the overall system and the radiated Sound Pressure Level (SPL) noise spectrum in free-space. Correlation with measured data has been achieved using a Single-Pulse rig for detailed unsteady gas dynamic analysis and a Rotary-Valve rig in conjunction with an anechoic chamber for noise spectra analysis. The results obtained show good agreement both gas dynamically and acoustically. The incorporation of these models into a full 1-D engine simulation code should facilitate the rapid assessment of various muffler designs prior to prototype manufacture and testing.

The performance characteristics of a naturally aspirated two-cycle engine can be predicted with an unsteady gas dynamics analysis of flow through the crankcase and cylinder; such an analysis provides values of volumetric efficiency and trapping pressure at any given engine speed. The predictions of the volumetric efficiency and trapping pressure are compared with experimental values from a high-specific-output engine and further amplified with theoretical/experimental comparisons of pressure-time histories taken in the exhaust, transfer, and inlet systems at several engine speeds. The theoretical derivation of unsteady gas dynamic cylinder to pipe boundary conditions is presented so that they become both economical of computer time and mathematically stable.

A computer program has been developed which predicts the sound pressure level and the frequency spectrum produced by simple engine exhaust systems. The program utilizes unsteady flow gas dynamic theory to predict the pressure-time history in the exhaust system and the velocity-time history at the open end of the system. Acoustic theory is then used to predict the sound pressure levels and frequency spectrum in free space. The work was carried out on a twin-cylinder four-cycle engine, but the theory can be applied to any internal combustion engine.

The performance characteristics of naturally aspirated 4-stroke cycle engines are influenced by the through-flow or exchange of fresh charge for exhaust gas during the valve overlap period. During this gas exchange period the influence of unsteady wave effects in both inlet and exhaust systems are most important. Pressure-time histories were measured at various tract locations for four inlet/exhaust configurations to demonstrate the effects of wave action on performance. The good correlation shown between measured and predicted pressure-time histories suggested that the theoretical technique may be used in further design analyses with a high degree of confidence.

Measurement of pressure-time histories in the exhaust system of a naturally aspirated internal combustion engine poses some difficult instrumentation problems. This paper describes an experimental and theoretical approach in tackling this research. The exhaust system is simulated by pulses of compressed air at a frequency of up to 4000 pulses/minute, that is, a 1 cyl 4 stroke cycle engine running at 8000 rpm. The pressure-time histories are calculated by digital computer in terms of the cylinder, exhaust valve, and pipe friction characteristics and compared with the experimental pressure-transducer records at various positions in the exhaust system.