CFD Simulation of Under Hood Engine Compartment for Forklift Truck

The present paper aims to present the CFD simulation of the under hood flow for Forklift Truck of 12 ton capacity. The purpose of the forklift truck is to handle the containers on marine ports. The speed of forklift truck is limited to 22km/hr. The engine selected is of 133HP @ 2300rpm.

The main objective of this investigation is to evaluate the air flow assessment in the under hood compartment and to determine velocity distribution in the under hood region that will affect the cooling system performance. As Radiator, Charge Air cooler and Fan are tested at free inlet and free outlet (FIFO) conditions at supplier end these components behaves differently when assembled in vehicles. This CFD simulations will help to determine the effect on cooling performance in assembled conditions. Also recirculation zone in under hood compartment is identified which has adverse effect on engine cooling performance like reduction in cooling flow rate. The motion of the fan has been model using MRF approach (Multiple Reference Frame method), Radiator and CAC has been modeled using distributed resistance (porous media) flow concept based on experimental test data of Radiator. The standard' k − ε model has been employed to model the turbulence.