Development of Detroit Diesel Allison 6V-92TA Methanol Fueled Coach Engine

Methanol has emerged as a near-term alternate to diesel fuel. The extremely low cetane rating of methanol has to this time precluded its use as a compression ignition fuel. Detroit Diesel Allison Division of General Motors has developed a version of the Series 92 two-stroke engine that is capable of operating on neat methanol by autoignition when the engine is at normal operating temperatures. This development was made possible by controlling the scavenging process to produce the desired in-cylinder conditions at the time of fuel injection. Glow plugs are used for starting and light load operation.

Development methodology and engine modifications are described and detailed performance and emission data are presented.