Numerical Simulation of Port-Valve-Cylinder Flow in Reciprocating Engines

This paper describes a CAD/CAE approach for the numerical simulation of port-valve-cylinder flow in reciprocating engines. This approach complements the classical experimental approach, using steady state and transient measurements, and it can replaces experiments at the design stage.

Computer software and hardware environment are discussed, including aspects concerning solid body modeling, mesh generation, CFD calculation, CPU requirements and results analysis. The simulation approach is assessed and validated through comparison with axisymmetric laboratory test results and actual engine configuration test results from MAZDA. The paper focuses on steady state analysis with open valve, and discusses the reproduction, by simulation, of flow features in the port- valve region, and their interaction with the flow on the entire port-valve-cylinder path.