Comprehensive Validation Methodologies for Hydrogen IC Engines: Combustion Analysis and Performance Metrics

2026-26-0256

To be published on 01/16/2026

Authors Abstract
Content
The validation of hydrogen-fuelled internal combustion engine (H2 ICE) is critical to assess its feasibility as sustainable transportation with zero carbon emissions. Validation of H2 ICE necessitates a specialized testing & analysis methodologies to achieve reliable test results. This study shows the adverse effects on engine performance due to barometric pressure variation, turbo compressor out temperature variation due to increase in ambient temperature. The analysis also shows experimental results of engine performance variation based on hydrogen gas quality. Charge air quality reduces due to presence of nitrogen and moisture content in hydrogen gas and has direct impact on combustion. Engine Performance variation also observed due to engine components detoriation like valve seat wear & spark plug gap expansion. This study emphasizes the significance of precise instrumentation of thermocouples across engine on cylinder head, intake manifold & exhaust manifold, to detect performance detoriation and combustion abnormalities like knocking & backfire. Experimental analysis conducted with different pre-ignition(PI) index engine oils which impacts on engine knocking phenomena. The comprehensive experiment conducted on performance metrics such as power output, combustion stability, and parts wear & tear were analyzed under varying operational conditions. Concurrently, detailed inspections were conducted to assess the impact of hydrogen on key engine parts, including valves, piston rings, cylinder liners, and fuel delivery system. This research provides critical insights into the procedural adaptations required for H2 ICE testing and validation. By integrating advanced instrumentation with experimental analysis, the study offers a robust framework for assessing engine performance, reducing operational risks, and ensuring reliability. These findings contribute to the development of optimized methodologies for hydrogen-fueled engines, facilitating their adoption as a sustainable alternative for transportation while addressing durability, emissions, and regulatory compliance challenges.
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Citation
Vasudevan, S., J, N., Bolar, Y., Pandey, S. et al., "Comprehensive Validation Methodologies for Hydrogen IC Engines: Combustion Analysis and Performance Metrics," SAE Technical Paper 2026-26-0256, 2026, .
Additional Details
Publisher
Published
To be published on Jan 16, 2026
Product Code
2026-26-0256
Content Type
Technical Paper
Language
English