An Experimental Study of the Delayed Mixing Stratified Charge Engine Concept

Preliminary computer studies indicated that the delayed mixing stratified charge engine concept might produce low emissions of nitrogen oxide and still provide reasonable efficiency and power. In the delayed mixing stratified charge engine concept a fuel-rich region is burned followed by air being mixed into the rich products. Nitrogen oxide formation was initially limited in the rich product mixtures because of the lack of oxygen and after mixing by the relatively low temperatures due to charge expansion.

A single cylinder engine was used to simulate the delayed mixing stratified charge combustion process. A rich charge was drawn into the engine through the carburetor. Combustion was initiated with a spark; later air was injected to complete the combustion process.

The results showed that emissions could be controlled by the delayed mixing combustion process. The engine specific power was also at reasonable levels. However, the engine efficiency was low.