The Effect of Alcohol Fueling on Diesel Engine Durability

The results of methanol fumigation on the performance and durability of three diesel engines are presented. The engines ranged in horsepower from 130 to 185, two of which were turbocharged. Both pre-chamber and direct-injected-type engines were represented. Methanol was sprayed into the intake manifold at a rate equal to 25 percent by volume of the total fuel flow. The engines ran at various speeds and loads following a cycle suggested by the EMA for a total of 500 hours. No engine modifications were made to optimize performance on alcohol fuel.

Performance testing for power and emissions and oil analysis for wear metals have not shown any significant wear due to the methanol fumigation. It has been concluded that alcohol fumigation performed under the stated test conditions does not induce wear or durability penalties.