Fumigation of Alcohols in a Multicylinder Diesel Engine-Evaluation of Potential

The paper presents the results of alcohol fumigation as applied to an existing turbocharged six-cylinder, direct injection diesel engine. Three alcohol fuels - methanol, ethanol, and aqueous ethanol - were fumigated in the crossover pipe, between the turbocharger and the intake ports. There was no attempt made to optimize the combustion system or the diesel fuel injection system for the dual fuel operation. Means to provide fuel vaporization were used. Extensive instrumentation allowed recording and data processing from all six cylinders.

The paper primarily addresses the impact of alcohol fumigation on rates of pressure rise, peak cylinder pressures, specific energy consumption and gaseous emissions of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and nitrous oxides. Conclusions are drawn as to the practical potential of fumigating larger proportions of alcohols in direct injection diesel engines.