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The Single Cylinder Research Engine (SCRE) at the Institute of Internal Combustion Engines and Powertrain Systems is equipped with a variable valve train that allows to switch between regular intake valve lift and early intake valve closing (Miller). On the exhaust side, a secondary valve lift on each valve is possible with adjustable back pressure and thus the possibility of realising internal EGR. In combination with alternative fuels, even if they are Drop-In capable as HVO, properties differ and can influence the emission and efficiency behaviour. The investigations of this paper are focusing on regenerative Drop-In fuel (HVO), fossil fuel (B7), and an oxygenate (OME), that needs adaptions at the engine control unit, but offers further emission potential. By commissioning a 2-stage boost system, it is possible to fully equalize the air mass in Miller mode compared to the normal valve lift.

The current work presents the results of an investigation on the impact of renewable fuels on the combustion and emissions of a turbocharged compression-ignition internal combustion engine. An experimental study was undertaken and the engine settings were not modified to account for the fuel's chemical and physical properties, to analyze the performance of the fuel as a potential drop-in alternative fuel. Three fuels were tested: mineral diesel, a blend of it with waste cooking oil biodiesel and a hydrogenated diesel. The analysis of the emissions at engine exhaust highlights that hydrogenated fuel allows to reduce CO, total hydrocarbon emissions, particulate matter and NOx.

Fossil fuels such as natural gas used in engines still play the most important role worldwide despite such measures as the German energy transition which however is also exacerbating climate change as a result of carbon dioxide emissions. One way of reducing carbon dioxide emissions is the choice of energy sources and with it a more favourable chemical composition. Natural gas, for instance, which consist mainly of methane, has the highest hydrogen to carbon ratio of all hydrocarbons, which means that carbon dioxide emissions can be reduced by up to 35% when replacing diesel with natural gas. Although natural gas engines show an overall low CO2 and pollutant emissions level, methane slip due to incomplete combustion occurs, causing methane emissions with a more than 20 higher global warming potential than CO2.

Water management in PEMFC power generation systems is a key point to guarantee optimal performances and durability. It is known that a poor water management has a direct impact on PEMFC voltage, both in drying and flooding conditions: furthermore, water management entails phenomena from micro-scale, i.e., formation and water transport within membrane, to meso-scale, i.e., water capillary transport inside the GDL, up to the macro-scale, i.e., water droplet formation and removal from the GFC. Water transport mechanisms through the membrane are well known in literature, but typically a high computational burden is requested for their proper simulation. To deal with this issue, the authors have developed an analytical model for the water membrane content simulation as function of stack temperature and current density, for fast on-board monitoring and control purposes, with good fit with literature data.

Powertrains, Fuels & Lubricants Conference & Exhibition

When you exhibit or sponsor at the On-Board Diagnostics Symposium-Europe (OBD-EU) it is your greatest chance to get in front of the industry’s preeminent decision makers in 2022.

September 17-19, 2019 │ Garden Grove, CA, USA

September 17-19, 2019 │ Garden Grove, CA, USA

Showcase your products and expertise while promoting your business at the Energy & Propulsion Conference & Exhibition.

Contact our Energy & Propulsion Conference & Exhibition team for more information.

For an open exchange about the most promising new propulsion/powertrain-related technologies for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles, the SAE 2023 Powertrains, Fuels & Lubricants Conference & Exhibition (PF&L) is where you need to be.

September 17-19, 2019 │ Garden Grove, CA, USA

Contact a member of our On-Board Diagnostics Symposium-Europe team today with any questions about attending, registering, exhibiting, sponsoring, and etc.

For an open exchange about the most promising new propulsion/powertrain-related technologies for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles, the SAE 2023 Powertrains, Fuels & Lubricants Conference & Exhibition (PF&L) is where you need to be.