Use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Tools for High-Performance Engine Tuning

High performance engine tuners have traditionally relied primarily on empirical techniques for intake flow optimization. This paper describes the use of a commercial Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) package to complement the traditional optimization strategies. This paper describes why some experimental methods are difficult to apply, including an example of Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), and demonstrates the benefits of using computational analysis to investigate geometry changes to the intake or exhaust systems. This paper also illustrates the use of a Coordinate Measurement Machine (CMM) to digitize an existing cylinder head to develop a solid model suitable for CFD analysis. A comparison of results from a CFD prediction from a digitized solid model to a flow bench measurement demonstrates the validity and usefulness of this approach.