Compression Ratio Effects on Performance, Efficiency, Emissions and Combustion in a Carbureted and PFI Small Engine

This paper compares the performance, efficiency, emissions and combustion parameters of a prototype two cylinder 430 cm³ engine which has been tested in a variety of normally aspirated (NA) modes with compression ratio (CR) variations. Experiments were completed using 98-RON pump gasoline with modes defined by alterations to the induction system, which included carburetion and port fuel injection (PFI).

The results from this paper provide some insight into the CR effects for small NA spark ignition (SI) engines. This information provides future direction for the development of smaller engines as engine downsizing grows in popularity due to rising oil prices and recent carbon dioxide (CO₂) emission regulations.

Results are displayed in the engine speed, manifold absolute pressure (MAP) and CR domains, with engine speeds exceeding 10000 rev/min and CRs ranging from 9 to 13. Combustion analysis is also included, allowing mass fraction burn (MFB) comparison. Experimental results showed minimum brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) or maximum brake thermal efficiency (η_TH) values in the order of 220 g/kWh or 37% could be achieved. A maximum brake mean effective pressure (BMEP) of 13 bar was also recorded at 8000 rev/min.