Gasoline Engine Cycle Simulation Using the Leeds Turbulent Burning Velocity Correlations

A 3-zone thermodynamic cycle model has been developed which incorporates the Leeds correlations of turbulent burning velocity. The correlations encompass both the beneficial effects of turbulence in flame wrinkling and the detrimental effects of flame strain, which can lead to partial or total flame quench. Allowance has been made for the effects of “developing turbulence”, as the initially laminar flame kernel grows and is progressively influenced by larger scales of turbulence.

Available experimental cylinder pressure and flame propagation data were used to check the plausibility of the simulation code and to establish values for the various constants employed to characterize the turbulence. The program was then used to explore the effects of engine speed, mixture strength, induction pressure and turbulence levels on the development of the combustion event.