Browse Topic: Air / fuel ratio

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3D Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis of the Performance and Emissions of an Off-Highway Port Fuel Injection Hydrogen Engine03-19-04-00187/27/2026
To fulfil the global aspiration of achieving net-zero emissions, hydrogen as a fuel seems to be one of the promising candidates. High energy density per unit mass and zero carbonaceous emissions are the two salient advantages that hydrogen offers. In the present study, a set of detailed chemistry-based 3D CFD combustion simulation has been carried on a 3-cylinder turbocharged, water-cooled port fuel injection SI Hydrogen engine to understand its optimum air–fuel ratio, compression ratio, spark timing and combustion chamber geometry. The simulations have been conducted at the full load of the rated power and maximum torque engine rpms. During simulation, the λ zone for study is restricted between 2.1 and 2.7. Two different bowl geometries (spherical and cylindrical), with two compression ratio options (12 and 14) are explored in the simulations. While the spherical bowl seems to accommodate flame front better than the cylindrical bowl, the compression ratio of 12 is a safer choice to control the maximum rate of pressure rise (dp/dθ). At full load and rated speed, the indicated thermal efficiency drops by 7.7% as the λ swings from 2.1 to 2.7, whereas the indicated specific NOx and dp/dθ drop by 99% and 81%, respectively. Similarly, at full load and maximum torque RPM, the indicated thermal efficiency drops by 6.4% with λ swing from 2.1 to 2.7, whereas the indicated specific NOx and dp/dθ drop by 99% and 91%, respectively. Beyond λ = 2.4 NOx reaches almost to zero, however, at a compromise of the thermal efficiency. The dp/dθ remains well within the acceptable limit under this scenario. To account this trade-off between the performance and emission parameters, optimum λ zone has been found out to be between 2.3 and 2.5.
Satre, Santosh Dadasaheb, Mukherjee, Nalini Kanta, Kumar, Sanjeev, Nene, Devendra
Experimental Investigation into Port Water Injection on the Transient Behavior of a Heavy-Duty Hydrogen Engine2026-01-07437/1/2026
Hydrogen-fuelled internal combustion engines are a potential carbon-free propulsion solution for high-power applications such as construction machinery and heavy-duty commercial vehicles. However, compared to conventional diesel engines, hydrogen engines exhibit limitations in transient operation and at full load, primarily due to the high reactivity of hydrogen. In spark-ignited hydrogen engines, combustion anomalies represent the main constraint during performance-oriented operation, particularly during transient phases that require mixture enrichment to meet dynamic torque demands. Water injection is investigated in this study as a means to mitigate these limitations. The paper describes the implementation of a port water injection system on a heavy-duty commercial hydrogen engine and evaluates its influence on engine performance with a focus on transient operating conditions. A combustion anomaly evaluation method developed in-house is applied to quantify the effect of water injection on abnormal combustion behavior. The results show that water injection shifts the combustion anomaly limit toward richer air–fuel ratios, thereby enabling mixture enrichment up to stoichiometric conditions or under during transient load changes. Water is injected cyclically into each intake port to achieve a defined water-to-hydrogen ratio during load steps. Even at low water injection rates, a significant reduction in engine response time is observed, leading to transient torque response comparable to that of a diesel reference engine. Improved torque demand tracking is demonstrated in dynamic test cycles. In steady-state operation, the application of water injection also extends the achievable full-load operating range. Overall, the results indicate that port water injection is an effective measure for suppressing abnormal combustion in heavy-duty hydrogen engines and enables more aggressive yet stable engine calibration with minimal water consumption, contributing to diesel-like performance characteristics.
Schneider, David, Christoforetti, Paul, Kappacher, Peter, Kapeller, David, Schutting, Eberhard, Eichlseder, Helmut, Trapp, Christian
NO x Formation Characteristics of Lean Hydrogen Combustion: From 0D Analysis to Comprehensive 3D-CFD Engine Investigations2026-01-07327/1/2026
The transition toward climate-neutral transportation requires powertrain concepts that combine high efficiency with low pollutant emissions. In this context, hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engines represent a promising solution when hydrogen is produced from renewable energy sources. Owing to its specific molecular properties, hydrogen offers new possibilities for influencing and optimizing the combustion process and reducing the emission formation. This paper presents a numerical approach for characterizing the NOx formation in a single-cylinder research engine equipped with port fuel injection and a passive pre-chamber ignition system. The single-cylinder is operated over a wide range of engine loads and speeds, covering air-to-fuel ratios from λ=1.5 to 2.5 and achieving up to 23 bar indicated mean effective pressure. The study focuses on the influence of engine load and mixture composition on NOx emissions. A dedicated look-up table approach in combination with several reaction parameters based on the extended Zeldovich mechanism are evaluated through comparison with experimental data. Furthermore, multiple sampling positions within the CFD mesh are examined. The simulations reproduce measured trends across variations in load and air-to-fuel ratio with good accuracy. At high load and λ=1.5, NOx emissions of up to 6000 ppm are produced, decreasing exponentially with increasing excess air. Finally, potential NOx reduction strategies for the single-cylinder are examined. While influencing the mixture homogenization shows limited effectiveness, temperature-based actions prove to be more effective. Among the investigated approaches, a Miller intake valve strategy yields the largest benefit, achieving approximately 10% NOx reduction by lowering end-of-compression temperatures and increasing residual gas dilution under otherwise identical operating conditions.
Gal, Thomas, Vacca, Antonino, Chiodi, Marco, Schmelcher, Robin, Kulzer, Andre Casal
Synergistic Integration of Advanced Combustion and Air-Path Technologies to Maximize Internal Combustion Engines Efficiency in Hybrid Applications2026-01-07337/1/2026
This paper assesses the efficiency limits of light-duty vehicle propulsion systems based on reciprocating internal combustion engines (ICE) in the current state of the art and in the next five-year horizon, considering their combination with technologies such as electric turbocharging and hybridization, while excluding plug-in hybrid configurations so that fuel remains the primary onboard energy source. A systematic methodology is applied to evaluate the influence of key variables—heat transfer, air–fuel ratio, and compression ratio—on engine performance, integrating these variations into a simulation model to capture their interactions and effects. The resulting parametric study enables the generation of new engine maps that exploit synergies between parameters and enhance the prediction of engine behaviour across different operating conditions, forming the basis for assessing potential advancements in hybrid powertrain architectures. These maps are then used to define performance expectations for hybrid vehicles, identifying optimal parameter combinations to guide future technology development and improve efficiency in hybrid powertrain design. The proposed powertrain architectures are integrated into a representative vehicle model, considering two vehicle typologies: a compact passenger car and a sport utility vehicle (SUV). To quantify the potential fuel-consumption benefits, an intelligent energy-management algorithm is implemented to supervise and optimize system operation over a WLTC driving cycle. The results indicate that the proposed configurations can achieve fuel-consumption reductions exceeding 20%, demonstrating the effectiveness of both the powertrain designs and the control strategies. Overall, the findings highlight the significant efficiency potential of advanced ICE-based propulsion systems when combined with near-term technologies such as electric boosting and hybridization, confirming the viability of these improvements and providing a robust basis for future hybrid vehicle development focused on maximizing energy efficiency in transportation.
Pla, Benjamin, Dolz, Vicente, Serrano, Jose R., Gómez-Vilanova, Alejandro, Oliva, Fermin, Cardenas, Maria, Ariztegui, Javier
Evaluating the Impact of Fuel Additives on Stochastic Pre-ignition Using Center for Quality Assurance (CQA) Approved Methodology03-19-03-00166/22/2026
Stochastic preignition (SPI) or low-speed preignition (LSPI) is an abnormal combustion phenomenon observed in downsized turbocharged direct-injection spark-ignition engines at highly boosted conditions. SPI results from the ignition of the air-fuel mixture from a fuel or oil droplet or a detached deposit before the spark discharge, and its occurrence can lead to extremely high peak pressures and severe knock, which can cause physical damage to the engine. This phenomenon limits the downsizing and boosting potential of direct-injection spark-ignition engines, thereby constraining the efficiency benefits that can be achieved. The propensity for SPI to occur is impacted by engine operating conditions as well as the properties of the fuel, fuel additives, lubricant, and lubricant additives. To mitigate its occurrence, it is important to understand the factors that impact the frequency of SPI events. As this abnormal combustion phenomenon is relatively recent, there was a lack of a standard procedure to detect the impact of a parameter on SPI frequency. This study details the development and validation of an engine dynamometer test procedure—the TOP TIER™ Standardized Dynamometer Test Method to Evaluate Additized Detergent Gasoline for SPI—approved by the Center for Quality Assurance (CQA), to evaluate gasoline additives for their impact on SPI. In this project, the newly validated SPI test protocol was used to compare the relative SPI tendencies of four TOP TIER™ fuel additives at maximum retail concentration against unadditized SPI test fuel, which served as the baseline. All four fuel additives were tested three times in randomized order. The results revealed that none of the TOP TIER™ additives tested had a statistically significant impact on the SPI rate.
Gopujkar, Siddharth, Davis, Richard, Worm, Jeremy, Tuma, Nic, Shukla, Prajwal, Reilly, Veronica, Chapman, Elana, Ciaravino, Joseph, Seyfried, Philipp
Combined EGR-Air Dilution Effects on Performance, Combustion and Emissions of a Single-Cylinder Spark-Ignition Direct-Injection Hydrogen Engine2026-37-00096/9/2026
Hydrogen internal combustion engines (H2ICE) have emerged as a promising solution for decarbonisation of the transport sector, due to low cost and potential for rapid deployment. However, abnormal combustion and high nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions limit stoichiometric operation, making dilution strategies essential. While lean combustion has been widely studied, combined dilution strategies of air and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) require further investigation. This work presents experimental results from a boosted 0.5-litre spark-ignition direct-injection single-cylinder research engine equipped with high-tumble ports and cooled high-pressure EGR. Relative air–fuel ratios (lambda) of 1 to 3 and EGR rates of 0 to 40% are evaluated at 5, 10, and 15 bar of indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP) at 2000 rpm to assess effects on net indicated thermal efficiency (nITE), combustion, and emissions. A peak nITE of 43.5% is achieved at 10 bar IMEP, λ = 2.5, and 30% EGR, which can be primarily attributed to low heat losses while maintaining lower combustion losses than at higher dilution levels. NOx emissions are effectively mitigated with increasing EGR and are largely independent of lambda at 5 bar IMEP under EGR dilution. At high load, EGR is shown to be beneficial to achieve high efficiency and lower NOx at lower dilution rates, thereby reducing boosting requirements. Equivalent dilution parameters are used to investigate combined effects of EGR and air dilution, from a mass dilution perspective with the mass dilution rate (MDR) and equivalent thermal reduction with the thermal dilution parameter (TDP). Indicated efficiency and unburned hydrogen emissions correlated strongly with MDR, while temperature-dependent parameters showed a high correlation with TDP. At constant engine speed, burn durations are shown to depend mainly on degree of thermal dilution, with no effect of load observed. At high dilution rates, combustion became increasingly insensitive to further dilution, indicating the presence of thermodiffusive instabilities under high levels of both EGR and air dilution.
King, Aidan, Islam, Reza, Pickering, Simon, Yuan, Hao, Mudge, Henry, Giles, Karl, Goyal, Harsh, Jones, Peter, Akehurst, Sam, Esposito, Stefania
Predictive Modelling of NO x and Unburned Hydrogen Emissions in a Direct-Injection Hydrogen Spark-Ignition Engine2026-37-00076/9/2026
Hydrogen is emerging as a compelling energy carrier for future transportation due to its potential to enable fully decarbonised operation and near-zero tailpipe pollutant emissions. Realising this potential in reciprocating internal combustion engines requires a detailed understanding of the complex interactions governing hydrogen combustion and emissions formation. In this context, physics-based reduced-order emission predictive modelling offers a powerful means to accelerate the development and optimisation of hydrogen-fuelled engines by enabling rapid evaluation of operating strategies without the need for extensive experimental campaigns. This study investigates the simulation of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and unburned hydrogen (uH2) emissions from a 0.5L spark-ignition direct injection single-cylinder research engine within a 1D-0D simulation approach. For NOx prediction, a simplified kinetic mechanism is coupled with both a 0D two-zone combustion model and a thermal multi-zone in-cylinder representation, enabling assessment of the need to account for temperature stratification for accurate prediction. For uH₂ emissions, phenomenological sub-models describing flame wall quenching and top-land crevice mechanisms are implemented and calibrated to capture the dominant sources of hydrogen escape during combustion. The models are validated against an experimental dataset spanning a wide range of engine conditions, including variations in engine load, relative air–fuel ratio from stoichiometric to ultra-lean combustion, dilution via exhaust gas recirculation, and spark timing. The comparison highlights the models' ability to reproduce observed physical trends across different engine operating conditions for both NOx and uH2. Regarding NOx emissions, the accounting of temperature stratification with the multi-zone model enables more accurate predictions of trends and absolute values. The uH2 model provides fundamental insights into hydrogen engine flame propagation by highlighting the need for flame propagation in the top-land crevice at richer λ to reproduce observed trends. Overall, the study provides insights into both hydrogen-specific emission mechanisms and key modelling requirements for accurate pollutant simulation in hydrogen engines.
Malfi, Enrica, De Felice, Massimiliano, Esposito, Stefania, Ribnishki, Aleksandar, King, Aidan, Akehurst, Sam, Jones, Peter, Goyal, Harsh
Numerical Methodology for Aircraft Light Explosion Proofness Study2026-26-07906/1/2026
The increasing demand for safety and reliability in aerospace applications necessitates rigorous testing of aircraft components, including light units, for explosion proofness. Traditional explosion proofness tests are destructive, expensive, and time-consuming, requiring significant resources for test setups and prototypes. To address these challenges, this research presents a numerical methodology using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to investigate the explosion proofness for aircraft light units. The primary motivation of this study is to establish a computational framework that supports early-stage design screening, reduces the number of physical prototypes, and enhances understanding of explosion behavior before formal qualification testing. This work contributes to advancing engineering practices in the aerospace industry by demonstrating the efficacy of CFD simulations in evaluating and enhancing the explosion proofness of light units. The proposed CFD model, implemented in ANSYS Fluent, adheres to the standards outlined in DO 160 for case setup, ensuring the accuracy and relevance of the simulation results. The methodology involves creating a simulation domain for the light unit, initially containing an air-fuel mixture with a localized high-temperature region to initiate ignition. This setup replicates the conditions of actual explosion proofness tests, providing a realistic assessment of light unit performance This CFD simulation methodology incorporates reduced chemical reaction mechanisms to model the explosion process effectively. By simplifying the chemical reactions involved, the computational load is minimized, making the simulations both accurate and feasible. This approach ensures that the CFD model can provide precise insights into the explosion dynamics while maintaining computational efficiency.
Selvaraj, Sugumaran, Nataraja, Prabhu
Impact of Hydrogen on Methane and Pollutant Emissions over Three-Way Catalysts with Natural Gas–Hydrogen Blends2026-01-03574/7/2026
Blending natural gas (NG) with hydrogen (H₂) can improve combustion and engine performance while potentially facilitating the catalytic conversion of methane and other pollutants, resulting in cleaner tailpipe emissions. This study evaluates the impact of H2 on the conversion of methane, CO, and NOx emissions on a commercial three-way catalyst (TWC) in a flow reactor using synthetic gas mixtures that simulate stoichiometric engine exhausts with NG or NG+H₂ combustion. The work examines whether, and how, the additional amount of H₂ in the exhaust stream affects the conversion efficiency of methane and other pollutants. Experiments were conducted with both degreened and aged catalysts under controlled conditions, systematically varying temperature, the air-to-fuel equivalence ratio (λ), and λ modulation. Test conditions covered λ values from 0.996 to 1.000 to represent nominally stoichiometric engine operation with different λ modulation amplitudes, as well as a range of temperatures to inform control strategies for effective CH₄, CO, and NOₓ reduction. Overall, the results show that hydrogen addition significantly improves the conversion efficiency of CH₄ and NOₓ, particularly at temperatures below 500 °C. More significantly, this study highlights that exhaust gas composition, operating temperature, λ management, and the oxygen storage capacity of the TWC all play major roles in affecting the tailpipe emissions from NG and NG+H₂ combustion.
Prikhodko, Vitaly, Wang, Min, Park, Yeonshil, Chen, Hai-Ying, Pihl, Josh
A Pathway to Exceed 50% Indicated Thermal Efficiency for Gasoline Engines with Active Pre-Chamber2026-01-03004/7/2026
Research on high efficiency and low emission control strategies are crucial for addressing energy security and pollution challenges for combustion engines of vehicles. This paper investigates the effects of increasing the compression ratio and excess air coefficient (λ) in naturally aspirated engines via active pre-chamber technology, and further enhancing λ through the synergy of active pre-chamber with intake boosting and Miller cycle technology, on combustion efficiency and pollutant emissions. Experiments were conducted on a high-compression-ratio (up to 16.6) single-cylinder gasoline engine. Under natural aspiration, the effective compression ratio was raised via valve timing, while λ was increased using integrated passive and active pre-chamber systems. Under boosted conditions, intake flow was controlled via a flow meter, and λ was controlled via an active pre-chamber to analyze the λ distribution and thermal efficiency at high-efficiency operating points. Results indicate that under natural aspiration, increasing the effective compression ratio to 15.8 and λ to 1.4 improved the indicated thermal efficiency (ITE) to 40.3%. Further deployment of an active pre-chamber enabling ultra-lean combustion (λ=2.0) achieved an ITE of 43.3% while reducing NOx emissions to 53×10-6. Under boosted intake pressure with Miller cycle, elevating intake pressure to 282kPa and achieving ultra-lean combustion (λ=2.0–2.2) resulted in ITE over 50%, with NOx emissions consistently below 50×10-6 (ppm - parts per million).
Deng, Jun, Li, Xiaoliang, Miao, Xinke, Xu, Bingxin, Zhang, JianQi, Li, Liguang
Improving Transient Diesel Performance with E-Supercharging and Multiple-Input Multiple-Output Controls2026-01-04444/7/2026
Torque transients are challenging for turbocharged diesel engines. Engine torque response is limited by the lag in air flow, restricting the rate at which fuel can be delivered to avoid high engine-out soot emissions. Electrified forced induction systems (EFIS) offer a solution to address this challenge. In this study, an electrified supercharger (e-supercharger) is utilized in addition to the stock turbocharger on a 4.5-L 4-cylinder diesel engine to create a two-stage boosting system. Two control strategies were studied for e-supercharger control during engine transients, a model-based single-input single-output (SISO) controller and a model-based robust multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) controller. Constant speed load acceptance (CSLA) experiments and emulated drive-cycles were performed to evaluate the performance of each control method. In-cylinder pressure measurements were acquired and apparent heat release calculations were performed and analyzed to better understand the transient engine response. The e-supercharged two-stage boosted engine demonstrated significant improvements over the baseline engine when using both control approaches. The rate of transient power generation was improved by as much as 59.4% resulting in reduced engine speed droop and decreased engine speed recovery time. Transient engine-out soot emissions were also reduced. Although both control approaches improved transient response relative to the baseline engine, the MIMO controller showed the greatest potential for future improvements.
Vang, Nicholas, Rothamer, David, Ghandhi, Jaal, Ashta, Shubham, Qiu, Weijin, Rayasam, Sree Harsha, Shaver, Greg, Frushour, Bryan, Dou, Danan
Upstream Oxygen Sensor Signal Improvement Using the DFSS and Virtual Validation Approach2026-01-04864/7/2026
Combustion stability and emission control remain key challenges for gasoline engines, requiring robust oxygen sensing strategies. The primary function of the upstream exhaust oxygen sensor is to detect the oxygen concentration in exhaust gas for accurate air–fuel ratio control. However, poor signal visibility from individual cylinders across engine speeds can lead to improper combustion prediction and reduced engine efficiency. This work applies a Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) approach to optimize the upstream oxygen sensor configuration in a 2.0 L four-stroke gasoline engine. Conventionally, sensor placement is completed by iterative testing and calibration, which is both time-consuming and cost intensive. The DFSS framework uses input, output, control, and noise factors. Exhaust gas mass flow rate from engine cylinders at different speeds is treated as the input, while the detected oxygen mass fraction is the output. Design parameters such as pipe length, pipe diameter, sensor orientation, insertion depth, and location are considered control factors. Sensor element position and ambient temperature serve as noise factors, as they cannot be controlled directly by the engineer. The analysis is performed using three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and confirmed through Design of Experiments (DoE) simulations. The optimized configuration achieved improved sensor signal stability and cylinder visibility, enabling more reliable combustion control. This structured approach demonstrates how virtual analysis combined with DFSS principles can guide robust oxygen sensor placement strategies, reducing validation effort while enhancing engine efficiency and emissions performance.
Dixit, Manish, Raja, Vinayak, Annabattula, Pallavi
Development and Preliminary Combustion Experiments of a Prototype Engine with Sleeve Valves Based on the Focusing Compression Principle2026-01-02954/7/2026
Our laboratory has proposed the focusing compression principle which employs pulsed super-multi jets of gas colliding around the chamber center. This principle aims to achieve high thermal efficiency by reducing both exhaust and cooling losses. Exhaust loss is minimized due to relatively-silent high compression. Cooling loss is reduced due to thermal insulation caused by fuel-air mixture being confined to the chamber center and the compressible flow effect. In previous studies, we conducted fundamental gasoline combustion experiments on a proof-of-concept opposed-piston engine which incorporated this principle. This engine featured eight intake nozzles in an octagonal configuration and utilized non-sinusoidal and strongly asymmetric piston movements. The results indicated the possibility of high thermal efficiency based on less knocking under high compression, and the potential for stable combustion under lean-burn conditions. As a next step towards practical application with durability, we have developed a new opposed-piston engine with a small displacement of 123 cc which maintains intake ports of octagonal configuration, featuring a unique valve system. This unique valve system is characterized by setting a cylindrical-shaped sleeve-valve in between the inner and outer- cylinders. On operation, these sleeve-valves move along the central axis of cylinders, opening or closing all eight ports on the cylinder walls simultaneously. In this paper, we first show details of the present new engine developed and its preliminary experiments including non-combustion motoring experiments, and also combustion experiments using gasoline. The engine was successfully motored up to 750 rpm with no gas leakage around the sleeve-valve at compression process. Combustion experiments were initially tested from slightly-lean conditions.
Nishizawa, Tomohiko, Naitoh, Ken, Baba, Shotaro, Ukegawa, Hiraku, Yamada, Sota, Ozono, Yuka, Abiko, Mirei, Suzuki, Yosuke, Hara, Namito, Ito, Yoshikuni, Matsubara, Kosaku, Uenoyama, Kazuyuki
Heavy Duty Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine Emissions Development to Achieve Ultra-low NOx2026-01-03564/7/2026
This paper presents the emissions development of a heavy-duty hydrogen internal-combustion engine (H₂ICE) targeting ultra-low NOx with a design goal of 20 mg/hp-hr. The approach integrates advanced thermal management of the engine and aftertreatment, including engine out NOx management through air-fuel ratio controls and an electric heater to accelerate catalyst light-off and sustain activity at low-load/idle conditions. A diesel-derived aftertreatment system (ATS) is selected to maximize practicality and component commonality, and an integrated controls strategy spanning the engine and ATS is implemented to demonstrate ultra-low NOx capability over EPA certification cycles. The paper concludes with considerations for periodic SCR regeneration to ensure emission compliance.
Shakya, Bijesh, Xu, Hui, Yang, Zhao, Stetter, John
Experimental Characterisation of Combustion, Performance, and Emissions in a Hydrogen Fueled Opposed Piston Engine2026-01-03354/7/2026
Recent studies have demonstrated that the current Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) can be adapted to operate with hydrogen for the decarbonisation of transport and gensets. This is mostly done by conversion of conventional 4-stroke compression ignition diesel engines or spark ignition gas engines for heavy-duty vehicles or 4-stroke spark ignition gasoline engines for light-duty applications. This study aims to assess the adoption of pure hydrogen direct injection technology on a novel two-stroke opposed-piston engine designed by Carnot Engine Ltd. The engine provides a flexible platform that can operate in both compression ignition and spark ignition modes, allowing it to adopt multiple fuels. For the first time, a single cylinder prototype version of this new engine was operated and tested with hydrogen at Brunel University of London. During the engine experiment, a spark ignition timing sweep was carried out at low and mid-loads up to 10 bar IMEP to identify the Minimum ignition advance for Best Torque (MBT). Then, a complete mapping of the fuel injection strategies and lambda matrix was performed to optimise engine efficiency and combustion stability at low loads. The outcome of this study demonstrates an impressive indicated thermal efficiency of 58.7% at a load of 5 bar indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP) when the engine was operated with an ultra-lean mixture of lambda 3.2. Additionally, the engine-out NOx emissions decreased from the maximum 1863 ppm at lambda 1.38 to less than 20 ppm at lambda 3.2. Furthermore, the steady-state engine-out emissions show near-zero carbon emissions at all operating conditions.
Mohamed, Mohamed, Roeinfard, Nima, Wang, Xinyan, Zhao, Hua, Watts-Farmer, Archie, Rahman, Nadiur, Lempp, Francis
Combustion Enhancement via Discharge Current Modulation under Turbulence Conditions2026-01-03364/7/2026
Utilizing low carbon fuel in lean burn combustion presents a compelling strategy for improving thermal efficiency and reducing NOx emissions. Methane, the main content of natural gas, still receives challenge of a rapid and complete combustion process because of its low flame speed. The long combustion duration deteriorates the performance of a spark ignition engine, in terms of poor combustion instability and misfire. Although ignition timing can be utilized to adjust the combustion phasing, the ignition process faces challenges due to reduced background pressure and temperature at advanced spark timings. In this paper, a rapid compression machine equipped with a specially designed flow chamber is utilized to enhance the turbulence flow, and a custom-built ignition module is utilized to provide boosted discharge current to enhance the ignition stability under flow conditions. An effective spark energy required to enhance the combustion process is investigated under both stoichiometric and lean conditions. Further increase of discharge current amplitude beyond this boundary yields minimal impact on the flame propagation process. This study will offer important insights for developing an on-demand ignition energy profiling strategy to reduce sparkplug electrode erosion.
Jin, Long, Cong, Binghao, Yu, Xiao, Kong, Xiangxin, Reader, Graham, Zheng, Ming
Characterisation of Particle Number and Size from a DI SI Engine Operating on Hydrogen versus Gasoline: Operating Sensitivities and Filtration Effects2026-01-03784/7/2026
Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engines (H₂ICEs) offer the potential for near-zero carbon emissions. However, while nitrogen oxide (NOₓ) emissions have been extensively studied, particulate emissions, specifically particle number (PN), which are widely attributed to in the literature to lubricant oil pyrolysis and exacerbated by hydrogen’s short quenching distance, remain less well understood. This study investigates exhaust-gas particle emission characteristics from a spark-ignition, single-cylinder research engine based on MAHLE Powertrain’s downsizing engine combustion system. The work was carried out at Brunel University of London and compares gasoline and hydrogen direct-injection strategies (central versus side injection) across a wide range of operating conditions, including variations in engine speed, load, air–fuel ratio (λ), rail pressure, and spark timing. While previous studies have investigated hydrogen particle formation mechanisms under isolated operating conditions, the combined influence of combustion strategy, mechanical engine condition, and exhaust filtration has not been systematically explored within a single experimental framework. This study characterises PN emissions and particle size distributions (PSDs) from a direct-injection spark-ignition research engine operating on hydrogen and gasoline under steady-state conditions. The effects of injection strategy (central versus side), air–fuel ratio (λ), rail pressure, and spark timing are examined, alongside a controlled comparison between a freshly overhauled engine and a mechanically worn configuration to assess sensitivity to oil-control condition. Particle measurements were performed using a fast-response differential mobility spectrometer equipped with a catalytic stripper to isolate solid particles, with results interpreted using SPN₁₀-equivalent metrics for comparative analysis. In addition, a series-production gasoline particulate filter (GPF) was evaluated under hydrogen operation to assess its ability to attenuate the ultrafine particles characteristic of H₂ICE exhaust. The results show that hydrogen combustion produces substantially lower engine-out PN than gasoline under comparable operating points, with particle size distributions strongly biased toward sub-23 nm diameters. PN emissions under hydrogen operation exhibit sensitivity to injection targeting, mixture strength, rail pressure, and engine mechanical condition, consistent with literature linking lubricant oil ingress and near-wall combustion behaviour to hydrogen PN formation. The GPF demonstrated measurable PN reduction under hydrogen operation in the single-cylinder, steady-state configuration examined Overall, this work provides an internally consistent dataset linking hydrogen combustion behaviour, engine mechanical condition, and injection strategy to PN emissions and filtration response under steady-state conditions. The findings are intended to inform calibration development, hardware design, and future certification-grade studies, rather than to demonstrate regulatory compliance.
Harrington, Anthony, Zaman, Zayne, Nickolaus, Chris, Zhao, Hua, Wang, Xinyan, Hall, Jonathan
Emission and Combustion Characteristics of a Hydrogen Direct-Injection Spark Ignition Engine Using EGR2026-01-03254/7/2026
This study experimentally investigates the combined effects of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and injection timing on the combustion and emission characteristics of a hydrogen direct injection engine. A single-cylinder 395 cc research engine was used, with injection timing varied from 60° to 180° BTDC and EGR rates from 0% to 30%. In-cylinder pressure, apparent heat release rate (AHRR), NOx, and unburned hydrogen concentrations were measured to analyze the influence of mixture formation and dilution on engine performance. Under non-EGR conditions, retarding the injection timing promoted mixture stratification, resulting in faster flame propagation and shorter combustion duration. However, localized high-temperature regions increased NOx formation, while incomplete combustion in lean or rich zones elevated unburned hydrogen emissions. When EGR was introduced, both ignition delay and combustion duration increased due to reduced oxygen concentration and thermal dilution. Nevertheless, the net indicated mean effective pressure (nIMEP) and indicated thermal efficiency (ITE) decreased by less than 1.6% and 1%, respectively, demonstrating that hydrogen’s fast combustion characteristics compensated for the reactivity loss. As the EGR rate increased, the formation of NOx and the emission of unburned hydrogen showed noticeable changes. At 30% EGR, NOx emissions decreased by up to 76% compared to the non-EGR baseline while maintaining stable combustion. However, excessive EGR resulted in increased unburned hydrogen emissions. These findings confirm that, with a properly optimized EGR rate, EGR is a more effective strategy than injection timing control for NOx reduction, achieving significant reduction with minimal efficiency penalty, and providing design insights for practical hydrogen-fueled engines.
Yang, Heetae, Ki, Youngmin, Kim, Jungho Justin, Kim, Jinsu, Bae, Choongsik, Hwang, Joonsik
Development of an Oxy-Hydrogen Engine for Power Generation Application Using Simulation and Experiment2026-26-02601/16/2026
Hydrogen is a zero-carbon fuel suitable for the de-carbonization of power generation and the industrial sector. Green hydrogen produced via the electrolysis of water is the most sustainable fuel to achieve a net-zero carbon economy. Oxy-hydrogen (hydrogen and oxygen) generated onsite from the electrolyzer can be fed to engine with the intake air to enhance power and combustion efficiency with near-zero exhaust emissions. In this study, a 15 kVA two-cylinder natural gas spark-ignition generator set was used. The engine was retrofitted to operate on an oxy-hydrogen-air mixture. A maximum of 43% of rated engine load was achieved during the preliminary experiments. GT-Power software was used to calibrate the 1D model using experiment data and generate the burn profile of oxy-hydrogen-air mixture. The calibrated and validated 1D model was used for further predictive simulations. The power limiting factors were identified via simulations for flow and power improvement. The simulations revealed that boosting the intake air through supercharging is necessary to achieve the power targets and lean engine operation (for lower NOx emissions). A suitable supercharger was selected based on the maximum airflow requirement and was modeled for further analysis. The maximum operating limits of air-fuel ratio and oxygen volume percentage in air for predictive simulations were fixed at 80 and 40%, respectively. The airflow management and power achievement becomes critical at high-altitude conditions due to lower ambient pressure and density. The results revealed that the selected supercharger is suitable for high-altitude conditions as well. However, NOx emissions increased drastically at high-altitude conditions due to higher oxygen concentration, in-cylinder temperature, and heat flux. Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) is necessary for oxy-hydrogen engines at high-altitude conditions. This study would be helpful in the development of oxy-hydrogen engines, aiding in the transition towards a zero-carbon economy.
Marwaha, Akshey, Tule, Shubham, Mishrikotkar, Prasad, Aghav, Yogesh
Performance Optimization of 2 Cylinder Flex Fuel Engine for Small Commercial Vehicle – A STEP TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY2026-26-01191/16/2026
Increasing ethanol blending in gasoline is significant from both financial (reducing dependency on crude oil) and sustainability (overall CO2 reduction) points of view. Flex Fuel is an ethanol-gasoline blend containing ethanol ranging from 20% to 85%. Flex Fuel emerges as an exceptionally advantageous solution, adeptly addressing the shortcomings associated with both gasoline and ethanol. Performance optimization of Flex Fuel is a major challenge as fuel properties like knocking tendency, calorific value, vapour pressure, latent heat, and stoichiometric air-fuel ratio change with varying ethanol content. This paper elaborates on the experimental results of trials conducted for optimizing engine performance with Flex Fuel for a 2-cylinder engine used in a small commercial vehicle. To derive maximum benefit from the higher octane rating of E85, the compression ratio is increased, while ignition timing is optimized to avoid knocking with E20 fuel. For intermediate blends, ignition timing is suitably interpolated. Fuel injection pressure is increased to address the higher fuel flow requirement, and a fuel heater is added to address cold starts with E85 fuel. Ethanol content detection is done through software, and by suitable interpolation, fuelling and ignition timing are optimized for the entire range of Flex Fuel in a single calibration file. Engine performance with E20 & E93 fuel is optimized considering all mechanical and thermal limits of the engine through various iterations. The experimental results are analysed using the first principle method.
Kulkarni, Deepak, Malekar, Hemant A, Upadhyay, Rajdip, Katkar, Santosh, Undre, Shrikant
Optimizing Hydrogen Engine Performance a Comparative Study of Lean & Stoichiometric Calibration Approach2026-26-02611/16/2026
Hydrogen combustion in internal combustion engines offers numerous advantages, such as zero CO2 emissions and high flame speed, which make it a promising alternative fuel for green vehicle solutions. In order to maximize the engine performance with hydrogen, however, meticulous calibration of the air-fuel mixture must be performed, particularly when lean and stoichiometric combustion conditions are considered. Lean burning, i.e., excess air, offers better thermal efficiency and lower NOx emissions but can cause lower engine power and combustion instability. Stoichiometric combustion, however, ensures complete combustion of the fuel-air mixture, but at the cost of higher combustion temperatures and consequently, high NOx emissions. Calibration strategies for hydrogen engines are presented in this paper by comparing the lean and stoichiometric strategies and their implications on engine power output, efficiency, and emissions. Test data from several hydrogen engine configurations demonstrate that lean burn with EGR addition can be employed to minimize NOx emissions at the expense of tight engine stability and power control. On the other hand, stoichiometric operation yields more power but with the requirement for complex emission control systems. The compromises between these calibration strategies are presented in the paper and recommendations are provided on optimizing the performance of hydrogen engines for different operating conditions.
Jadhav, Ajinkya, Bandyopadhyay, Debjyoti, Sutar, Prasanna S, Sonawane, Shailesh Balkrishna, Rairikar, Sandeep D, Thipse, Sukrut S
Feasibility Study of Cylinder Deactivation (CDA) Technology for an Off-Highway Tractor Engine2026-26-00741/16/2026
Cylinder Deactivation technology is explored as an effective mechanism for enhancing the fuel economy and reducing emissions in internal combustion engines. The current exercise focuses upon the feasibility of Cylinder Deactivation technology in a 3-cylinder, 3.3-liter naturally aspirated, water-cooled diesel engine from the off-highway tractor application. A meticulous 1D thermodynamic simulation with individual cylinders deactivated one by one, has proved that deactivating the second cylinder yields the most favorable fuel economy, emissions and engine balancing, particularly at the loads lower than 54% and across all engine speeds. Upon deactivating the cylinders at Top Dead Centre (TDC) and Bottom Dead Centre (BDC), it has been concluded that the most effective deactivation point occurs at TDC, where the minimum air mass is trapped inside the cylinder. This results in a reduction of pumping and friction losses by maximum 34% and an increase in brake thermal efficiency by maximum 26%, as compared to the baseline engine. The in-cylinder trapped A/F ratio becomes richer by 32% when a cylinder is deactivated. As a consequence, the C1-8 mode NRSC cycle average HC and CO reduce by 22% and 28%, respectively. CO2, NOx and PM remains almost the same with respect to the baseline engine (variation less than 3%). The maximum increase in exhaust temperature when mid cylinder deactivated is observed 109°C. These observations are duly validated through the engine dynamometer testing.
Choudhary, Vasu, Saini, Sanjay, Mukherjee, Nalini, Nene, Devendra
Flex-Fuel Technology for India: Challenges, Opportunities, and Compliance with Emerging Emission Norms2026-26-01091/16/2026
The adoption of flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) in India presents a significant opportunity to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and ensure compliance with the country’s evolving emission norms. This paper explores the key aspects of flex-fuel technology in the context of Indian four-wheeler regulations, particularly Bharat Stage VI and potential future emission norms. The study begins with an overview of flex-fuel technology, detailing its advantages and associated challenges. A critical focus is placed on blend identification techniques, which play a vital role in optimizing combustion efficiency and ensuring seamless transitions between different ethanol-gasoline blends. Furthermore, the impact of ethanol blending on various fuel properties is examined, including changes in energy content, latent heat of vaporization, octane number rating, and stoichiometric air-fuel ratio. These factors significantly influence engine performance and emission characteristics, highlighting both challenges and opportunities in meeting emission targets. Finally, the study presents key conclusions on the viability of flex-fuel adoption in India. By addressing the challenges and opportunities associated with the technology, this paper attempts to provide insights for optimizing its implementation in the evolving automotive landscape.
Balasubramanian, Karthick, KR, Prabhakar, Kallahallii Somu, Santhosh Kumar
Artificial Neural Network-Based Performance and Emission Prediction for Hydrogen-Combustion Multicylinder Engines2025-36-023712/18/2025
In response to the pressing need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector, hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engines (H2ICEs) have emerged as a promising alternative to conventional fossil-fueled powertrains. However, optimizing H2ICEs presents challenges in balancing performance with emissions, particularly in nitrogen oxide (NOx) formation This study proposes a data-driven methodology using an artificial neural network (ANN) to predict key emission and performance metrics: NOx emissions, brake mean effective pressure (BMEP), brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC), brake power, and brake thermal efficiency, based solely on engine operational parameters. Experimental data were collected from a three-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engine under varying conditions of intake pressure, spark timing, air-fuel ratio, engine speed, and valve timing. Feature selection was performed using the Spearman correlation coefficient, identifying engine speed, start of injection angle (SOI), air-fuel ratio (λ), and intake pressure as the most important input variables. Bayesian optimization was employed to tune the ANN’s hyperparameters, resulting in a network architecture with a single hidden layer consisting of 10 neurons using the tanh activation function, optimized with the Adam optimizer at a learning rate of 0.01. The final ANN model exhibited satisfactory predictive performance, achieving correlation coefficients greater than 0.97 for most outputs and exceeding 0.95 across all predicted variables. These results demonstrate that the proposed ANN effectively captures the nonlinear behavior of hydrogen-fueled engines and offers a valuable tool for reducing the experimental burden in engine calibration and development, thereby supporting the advancement of hydrogen-powered mobility solutions.
Pasa, Bruno Roberto, Silveira, Juliano Pereira, Fagundez, Jean Lucca Souza, Lanzanova, Thompson Diórdinis Metzka, Martins, Mario Eduardo Santos, Salau, Nina Paula Gonçalves
Performance Analysis of Methanol- Ethanol Blend Fuel in a Spark-Ignition Flex-Fuel Engine2025-36-014812/18/2025
Flex-fueled vehicles (FFV) dominate the Brazilian market, accounting for over 75% of the national fleet. Ethanol fuel is widely used, primarily in the form of hydrated ethyl alcohol fuel (HEAF). Given the similar physicochemical properties of ethanol and methanol, fuel adulteration is a growing concern, often involving the addition of anhydrous ethanol, methanol, or even water to hydrated ethanol. These adulterants are visually imperceptible and can only be detected through analyses conducted by regulatory agencies using specialized instruments. However, they can significantly affect vehicle performance and accelerate engine component deterioration. The experiment was performed with a small displacement 3-cylinder port fuel injection flex-fuel engine on an engine test bench (dynamometer) and compared when fueled with ethanol and methanol. Data acquisition included combustion pressure, spark plug temperature, torque, air-fuel ratio, fuel flow, spark maps, and the overall effects of methanol adulteration on combustion. The results indicate that engines designed and calibrated to operate with hydrated ethanol exhibit different combustion behaviors when methanol is present in the fuel mixture. Methanol increases combustion pressure and temperature inside the chamber, creating a highly corrosive environment due to both the elevated temperature and the chemical properties of methanol. Fuel consumption increased when methanol was used in the engine calibrated for ethanol. The findings highlight the potential risks associated with fuel adulteration, emphasizing its impact on engine durability, vehicle fuel economy, and maintenance costs.
Mascarenhas, Giovana Rebellato, Gomes, Ederson, Cruz, Diego, Duque, Edson Luciano
Development of Automatic Calibration System for PFI Engines2025-32-008411/3/2025
This report summarizes the research findings on fuel injection calibration methods, aiming to improve engine performance and reduce environmental impact. In Port Fuel Injection (PFI) engines, the injected fuel adheres to the port walls and mixes with air as it vaporizes, then flows into the combustion chamber. Traditionally, the fuel injection quantity is determined by the base map, which is calibrated for a steady state, and corrections for transient conditions. During steady-state operation, the air-fuel ratio of the mixture is uniquely determined by the amount of fuel injected, allowing for reproducible calibration. However, during transient conditions, the amount of fuel adhering to the walls and the amount vaporized do not balance, necessitating transient compensation to achieve the desired air-fuel ratio. Traditional transient compensation has been adapted for each engine model based on experience to accommodate differences in port shapes and injector placements. This approach has not always resulted in optimal calibration and often required significant time. To address this issue, a new transient compensation logic and an automated calibration system have been developed, enabling efficient and optimal calibration. The implementation of this system eliminates variations due to the skill level of the calibration engineer and reduces time requirements. Furthermore, optimal calibration contributes to improved engine performance and reduced environmental impact.
Haraguchi, Kazuki
Impact of Enhanced Physics-Based Estimation Modeling for Trapped Air and EGR in Real-Time Control of Hydrogen Injection in a PFI Internal Combustion Engine2025-32-004711/3/2025
Hydrogen PFI engines face abnormal combustion issues, especially during transient operation. The air-to-fuel ratio and trapped exhaust gas significantly affect combustion stability and NOx emissions, requiring continuous monitoring. Real-time estimation of the trapped gas composition and thermodynamic state is therefore crucial but challenging. This work introduces a real-time, physics-based Multi-Input-Multi-Output (MIMO) model for accurately estimating trapped air and exhaust gas mass at the intake valve closing (IVC) event. In detail, the estimation model makes use of dynamic in-cylinder and exhaust pressure measurements to accurately model mass flows and heat exchange equations with 0.5 CAD resolution. This allows extremely high fidelity when modelling the physical properties of the various chemical species along the engine cycle. Moreover, the model calibration appears only in the form of two coefficients implemented on a lookup table for twelve different operating points, highlighting the small calibration effort. The physics-based model for the estimation of the amount of air and EGR was validated against 1-D numerical results for a hydrogen-fueled PFI engine prototype developed in GT-Power environment. The validation process analyzes the model accuracy in multiple steady-state and transient profiles, in terms of in-cylinder trapped air and residuals. 165 steady cases and two transient profiles of 1800 engine cycles each are studied. Results show the robustness and accuracy of the model, allowing proper AFR control especially when integrating a fuel-injection correcting controller. Indeed, value of normalized mean absolute percentage error around 2% and 5% are reported for air and EGR estimation. The model proves to be highly accurate even in fast-transient operation: however, further improvements will be carried out to reduce maximum errors observed.
Galli, Claudio, Ferrara, Giovanni, Grilli, Niccolò, Balduzzi, Francesco, Romani, Luca, Vichi, Giovanni
A Combustion CFD Study on the Pre-Chamber Jet Combustion Technology for Large Motorcycle Gasoline Engine2025-32-000111/3/2025
The objective of this study is to enhance the full-load power and the partial-load thermal efficiency of a gasoline spark-ignition engine for large motorcycles. To achieve these goals, it is important to increase the combustion speed and mitigate knocking, so a passive pre-chamber jet combustion system was evaluated. In the specification study, a three-dimensional combustion simulation incorporating detailed chemical kinetics was used to analyze the combustion mechanism, including knocking detection. For full-load conditions, a passive pre-chamber jet combustion system was evaluated. It accelerated combustion by increasing turbulent kinetic energy in the main chamber through jets sprayed from the pre-chamber. By increasing the compression ratio by 2.0, the full-load indicated work increased by 3.6% compared to conventional SI combustion. Under partial-load conditions, the passive pre-chamber jet combustion system faced challenges, such as reduced jet temperature due to increased residual gas in the pre-chamber, heat loss at the holes, and excessive initial jet penetration, which inhibited ignition in the main chamber. To address these issues, the pre-chamber jet 2-plug combustion system was evaluated, where main-chamber side-plug ignition was followed by pre-chamber ignition. The pre-chamber jet 2-plug combustion system enhanced jet ignition through flame interaction in the main chamber, resulting in increased combustion speed. Furthermore, relocating the main-chamber side-plug to a position between the exhaust valves closer to the bore center increased combustion speed and mitigated knocking. As a result, the pre-chamber jet 2-plug combustion system, with the side-plug located between the exhaust valves, enhanced partial-load indicated thermal efficiency by 1.7 percentage points compared to conventional SI combustion.
Ando, Hirokazu, Tanaka, Takumi, Tomizawa, Kengo, Inoue, Yosuke
Numerical Analysis of Combustion Stability and Efficiency Improvement in Ammonia Engine Utilizing Passive Turbulent Jet Ignition (PTJI)2025-32-004911/3/2025
Ammonia, a carbon-neutral fuel, is a promising candidate for next-generation engine applications. However, its low flame speed (~7cm/s) and prolonged ignition delay (~10ms at stoichiometric conditions) impose significant challenges in achieving stable and efficient combustion across varying operating conditions. At high-speeds, incomplete combustion due to limited residence time reduces efficiency, while at low-speeds, ignition instability and low combustion temperatures hinder reliable operation. To address these challenges, the Passive Turbulent Jet Ignition (PTJI) system has been proposed to enhance turbulence-driven mixing and improve ignition characteristics. This study focuses on optimizing a PTJI system for ammonia-fueled engines using a three-phase methodology. First, the 800cc 2-cylinder gasoline engine was modified for ammonia using numerical analysis, and a baseline analysis of the combustion characteristics was conducted. Next, a turbulent intensity study within the PTJI system was performed to determine an optimal configuration for stable combustion. Results show that PTJI increased turbulent intensity by up to 120% compared to conventional spark ignition, enhancing flame propagation and reducing ignition delay. Finally, PTJI effectiveness was evaluated under both high-speed and low-speed conditions. At 2000rpm, PTJI increased combustion temperature by ~150K, improving ignition stability and reducing cycle-to-cycle variations, thereby improving the convergence of the analysis. At 3000rpm, PTJI accelerated flame propagation speed by ~50%, facilitating complete fuel-air mixture combustion and enhancing thermal efficiency. In conclusion, this research demonstrates that PTJI is a viable solution for overcoming the inherent limitations of ammonia combustion. By increasing turbulence intensity and improving flame propagation, PTJI enables more stable and efficient ammonia engine operation, offering a promising approach for future carbon-neutral powertrains.
Ju, Kangmin, Kang, Hyun-Ung, Kim, Jeong Hyeon
Development of Supercharged Direct-Injection Two Stroke Engine with Intake and Exhaust Valve for Series Hybrid (2nd Report)- To Realize Lean Burn -2025-32-002311/3/2025
The two-stroke engine, known for its small displacement and high performance, is space-efficient when installed in a vehicle. As such, incorporating two-stroke engines into HEVs is an effective way to reduce vehicle weight and optimize engine space. However, one downside is that the amount of unfired elements in the exhaust gas increases due to the air/fuel mixture being expelled into the exhaust system during the scavenging process. Moreover, combustion can become unstable due to the large volume of residual burned gases in the cylinder. To address these issues, we propose a two-stroke engine equipped with intake and exhaust valves that directly inject fuel into the cylinder. In our first report, we presented an engine design and method that enable high scavenging efficiency and stable combustion in a two-stroke engine [1]. In this second report, we share the results of our research aimed at improving fuel efficiency and achieving low emissions, all while maintaining the high performance typical of a two-stroke engine. To enhance fuel efficiency, the amount of burned gas was optimized by adjusting the timing and lifting the intake and exhaust valves. Lean combustion was achieved by leveraging the high temperature in the cylinder, utilizing its excellent ignitability. Additionally, it has been reported that THC emissions—a common issue in two-stroke engines—are reduced by preventing unburned gas from being expelled into the exhaust pipe through the adoption of in-cylinder direct injection.
Sakurai, Yota, Hisano, Atsushi, Saitou, Masahito, Ichi, Satoaki
Effect of In-Cylinder Hydrogen Mixture Formation on Hydrogen Combustion2025-32-006511/3/2025
Global efforts to mitigate climate change include ambitious long-term strategies by countries to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The automotive sector is exploring carbon-free powertrains, with hydrogen emerging as a key technology. Its zero-emission potential positions it for widespread adoption in power generation, transportation, and industry. Hydrogen engines, particularly direct injection engines offering high power and efficiency, are gaining traction due to their adaptability using existing engine components. However, in a hydrogen direct injection engine, achieving proper mixing of hydrogen and air in the cylinder is challenging, making in-cylinder mixture formation a crucial factor for ensuring stable combustion. To predict hydrogen mixture formation in the cylinder, we conducted a Schlieren visualization experiment of the hydrogen jet. Based on the results, a detailed hydrogen jet model for the direct injection injector was developed. This model was then integrated into the in-cylinder analysis, allowing an investigation into the impact of injection timing on hydrogen combustion. Furthermore, hydrogen combustion experiments were carried out using a single-cylinder hydrogen direct injection engine, and the accuracy of the in-cylinder analysis results was validated.
Hisano, Atsushi, Saitou, Masahito, Sakurai, Yota, Ichi, Satoaki
Development of the Hydrogen Fueled Internal Combustion Engine for Off-Road Applications2025-32-006611/3/2025
This paper focuses on the potential application of hydrogen fueled internal combustion engine (HICE) in the off-road market, examining HICE based on a diesel engine. In the transition to HICE, priority was given to compatibility with existing systems, minimizing changes from the base engine. By adopting a PFI (Port Fuel Injection) method for fuel injection, low-pressure hydrogen supply was achieved. To address the issue of backfire associated with PFI, optimization of injection pressure using a variable pressure control valve, along with adjustments to valve timing and injection timing, was implemented to suppress backflow of residual gases into the intake system and minimize hydrogen retention. Regarding pre-ignition, in addition to suppressing hotspots, the relationship between the homogenization of the air-fuel mixture and NOx emissions was examined, revealing a correlation. This engine was mounted on a generator, and efforts were made to improve the important characteristic of responsiveness in generators. As a result, it was confirmed that the responsiveness is comparable to that of existing gas engine generators.
Shiraishi, Kentaro, Kishi, Shinji, Kato, Daichi, Mitamura, Kenta, Murakami, Kei, Mikuni, Yusuke
Transient Helium Jet Evolution Using High Speed Schlieren Imaging2025-32-005711/3/2025
The accelerating global shift towards decarbonised energy systems has positioned hydrogen as a highly promising carbon-free fuel. This study comprehensively investigates the macroscopic characteristics and temporal evolution of vortex ring trailing helium jets, serving as a surrogate for hydrogen, injected into a quiescent ambient environment using high-speed Schlieren imaging. This research addresses critical insights into fuel-air mixing dynamics essential for optimising hydrogen direct injection (DI) internal combustion engines. Analysis of helium jet tip’s topology revealed a three-stage evolution from an initial pressure-insensitive phase, dominated by pressure wave structures, to a momentum-driven, vortex-dependent growth stage, then to a fully developed stage. Specifically, the lower-pressure cases showed increased Kelvin-Helmholtz instability and distinct head vortex pinch-off at the final stage. Jet tip velocities transitioned from initial high, rapid pressure wave development speeds to a momentum-controlled phase, with lower-pressure jets exhibiting greater fluctuations and susceptibility to Kelvin-Helmholtz instabilities effects. Jet width growth initially mirrored across pressures due to vortex ring expansion before diverging into a turbulent mixing regime, notably displaying a transient width reduction as internal ring structures dissipated. The jet angle stabilised around 32°, with higher injection pressures resulting in slightly narrower angles due to enhanced axial momentum. Overall, jet area growth was significantly faster and larger at higher injection pressures, confirming their superior mixing potential. These findings provide crucial insights into the interplay of injection parameters, vortex dynamics, and turbulent processes, advancing the fundamental understanding necessary for optimising fuel-air mixture formation and combustion efficiency in hydrogen DI engine development.
Dong, Shuo, Shi, Hao, Zhang, Gengxin, Feng, Yizhuo, Lu, Enshen, Wang, Xinyan, Zhao, Hua
Experimental Study on Hydrogen-Methane Co-Combustion in Small Gas Engines2025-32-005511/3/2025
Hydrogen fuel has garnered significant attention as a key method for adapting internal combustion engines to a carbon-neutral society. Hydrogen is a carbon-free fuel that does not produce CO2 emissions during combustion. However, its wide flammability range and extremely low ignition energy present technical challenges when applied to internal combustion engines, such as the frequent occurrence of abnormal combustion phenomena like pre-ignition and knocking. Furthermore, the low energy density of hydrogen makes it difficult to achieve high power output. Additionally, hydrogen’s high adiabatic flame temperature and short quenching distance result in increased NOx emissions and cooling loss, which are further obstacles to its use. To address these issues, this study focuses on methane blending as a remedial approach. Experiments were conducted using a naturally aspirated engine with a premixed intake method to investigate the effects of methane-hydrogen blending. The following key findings were obtained: 1 The heat release rate can be controlled by adjusting the blending ratio. 2 Pre-ignition and knocking can be suppressed. 3 Power output can be improved. 4 NOx emissions can be reduced. 5 Thermal efficiency can be enhanced by optimizing the blending ratio based on engine load conditions. The insights gained through this study demonstrate the potential of internal combustion engines in achieving a low-carbon and decarbonized society.
Tanaka, Kenta, Tani, Toshihiro, Sako, Takahiro
Impact of Oil Composition on Pre-Ignition in a Hydrogen Engine04-18-03-001810/10/2025
Pre-ignition (PI) is a common issue in internal combustion engines (ICE) with spark ignition. While the various causes have been identified with conventional fuels (such as gasoline or gasoline blends), the causes with hydrogen in ICE are not yet fully understood. This article presents the results of investigations into the influence of seven different lubricating oils on PI in a single-cylinder hydrogen research engine. The variation of two different parameters at two engine speeds were investigated: load and air/fuel mixture. For both variations, the tests start at the same conditions and run until the operating limit of the engine is reached (peak firing pressure, or maximum intake manifold pressure). The PI and knocking PI are investigated, while classifying them according to the peak cylinder pressure. It has been observed that enleanment above λ = 2.4 can lead to higher PI rates, while simultaneously reducing the knocking PI. During the load sweep at 2000 1/min, the highest achievable load among all the oils ranged from IMEP = 19–21 bar, while at 4000 1/min, it ranged from IMEP = 12–15 bar. The performance of the oils showed significantly more disparity at the elevated engine speed. While the impact of different lubricating oils on gasoline engines is rather limited, the outcome of this experiment indicates that in the case of hydrogen engines, oils can have a significant impact on PI. In addition to the oil formulation, different viscosities were also investigated. A lower relative calcium content leads to a much higher PI rate, a lower relative calcium content combined with a higher viscosity did not impact the PI rate. The base oil composition came second in terms of PI influence. The sulfated ash content did not show differences in terms of PI rate. In contrast to gasoline engines, the PI tendency increases with increasing engine speed.
Pehlivanlar, Benjamin, Torkler, Michael, Fischer, Marcus, Göbel, Christoph, Pischinger, Stefan, Maulbetsch, Theo, Nübling, Fritz, Neumann, Stephan
Investigation of Transient High Current Ignition for Lean Mixture in Spark Assisted Compression Ignition2025-01-039010/7/2025
Lean burn combustion is an effective strategy to reduce the in-cylinder temperature. Hence reduce NOx emissions and increase the thermal efficiency of the system. One essential aspect of successful combustion is the flame kernel initiation and development. However, as the fuel-air mixture becomes leaner, challenges arise in achieving a stable flame kernel initiation and a moderate speed of flame propagation. This empirical research aims to investigate the impact of the transient high current ignition strategy on flame kernel development, flame propagation and auto-ignition timing of lean Dimethyl Ether (DME). In this work, a rapid compression machine is employed at engine-relevant conditions, a pressure of ~15 bar and temperature of ~650K. Spark-assistance is applied at the end of compression to enable a spark-assisted compression ignition combustion mode. The spark event is initiated by a transient high current ignition system, which includes a traditional transistorized coil ignition and an in-parallel high-voltage capacitor for boosting the transient current, enabling high discharge energy (up to 11.3J). The combustion process is qualitatively assessed with high-precision pressure data acquisition along with high-speed images and quantitatively processed through image processing. Test results indicate that as spark energy increases, faster flame propagation is observed resulting in a shorter time requirement for reaching the auto-ignition in lean DME along with a shorter combustion duration.
Asma, Sabrina, Yu, Xiao, Jin, Long, Tjong, Jimi, Zheng, Ming
Optimization of CI Engine Operation with DME on an FTP Cycle2025-01-039410/7/2025
Fuels that can be produced in a sustainable manner are of high interest because they can provide an essential step toward net zero emissions vehicles. This study examines the combustion of one such fuel, Dimethyl Ether (DME), in a compression ignition, 4-cylinder, 2.2L engine. Testing was conducted using the Federal Test Procedure (FTP) certification cycle from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Different sets of calibration maps were designed to target low-NOx (30-50ppm) by using high EGR and intake throttle and high-NOx (approximately 1000ppm) using no EGR. An intermediate, mid-NOx calibration was also evaluated. Varying calibration approaches yielded total integrated engine out emissions ranging from 118 to 145gCO2/km, all below the 191gCO2/km from the baseline diesel. The corresponding NOx+UHC and CO emissions were also evaluated. The mid-NOx calibration was overall more favorable, as it met TIER 3-Bin 20 emissions requirements with the current efficiencies of the base engine diesel aftertreatment system. This paper reviews the transient behavior with three different calibrations, noting the effect of air-to-fuel ratios where the engine combustion efficiency deteriorates. It also highlights the impact of improved air and fuel controls, and the application of real time combustion feedback to enhance the combustion stability of the engine and the reduction of CO2 emissions. The paper explores the impact of renewable DME, and its carbon index, on the CO2 emissions for the low-NOx calibration. While a 5% renewable DME content can reduce the CO2 to the target level, the fuel consumption remains high due to the poor combustion efficiency and corresponding high HC and CO during transient operation.
De Ojeda, William, Wu, Simon (Haibao), Harrison, Christopher, Hall, Carrie, Arslan, Elaheh, Pulpeiro Gonzalez, Jorge
Bridging Fundamental Combustion Analysis and Engine Knock Behavior -1st Report, CFR Engine Test for Various RON Fuels2025-01-039110/7/2025
A collaborative study was conducted to bridge the gap between fundamental combustion research and engine-scale observations of knock in spark-ignition (SI) engines. Using Primary Reference Fuels (PRFs) with Research Octane Numbers (RON) of 80, 90, and 100, experiments were carried out with a Cooperative Fuel Research (CFR) engine at air-fuel ratio, λ = 1.0, focusing on knock onset conditions in terms of unburned gas pressure and temperature. In the engine tests, pressure traces under knocking conditions were analyzed to identify knock onset and to estimate the corresponding unburned gas temperature history. Results showed that the pressure at knock onset varies clearly with PRF value: higher RON fuels exhibited knock onset at higher pressures, likely due to changes in compression ratio applied to match standard RON test procedures. In contrast, the unburned gas temperature conditions showed partial overlap across different PRFs, but with a tendency for higher RON fuels to experience knock onset at slightly higher temperatures. These findings provide a coherent dataset linking engine-based knock behavior with fundamental combustion characteristics, forming the foundation for the reaction-kinetics-based analysis presented in the second report. Additionally, the CFR engine experiments were also conducted at λ = 0.88 to support the comparison with standard RON measurement conditions.
Yasutake, Yuki, Misono, Katsuhiro, Suzuki, Yoshikatu, Naiki, Taketora, Watanabe, Manabu, Moriyama, Hinata, Morii, Youhi, Tsunoda, Akira, Maruta, Kaoru
Experimental Investigation of Usage Limits of Various Alcohol-Based Fuels in Spark Ignition Engine2025-24-00319/7/2025
Current ambitious targets of transport utilized fossil fuels replacement pose a considerable challenge while transportation affordability, energetic and precious materials security are to be maintained. Most of current solutions oriented towards passenger cars fossil fuel replacement by more renewable resources are dependent on one superseding method only. On other hand, each of them exhibits some drawbacks and benefits while a reasonable combination could mitigate number of limitations and include many advantages. Such a solution could be usage of a wide range of liquid fuels from renewable resources in a suitable spark ignition engine accompanied by common battery electricity storage. The aim of this experimental work was to develop and demonstrate possibilities and results of an uncomplex engine adaptation to a wide range of fuels obtainable from renewable resources suitable as a range extender to commonly proposed electric cars. The approach chosen used standard gasoline as a starting fuel followed by switching to neat alcohol-based fuel. This goal embraced significant modifications to engine fuel system, utilization of different control system and proper fuel switching procedure and control of air to fuel ratio. Afterwards, the engine successfully operated under quasi-stationary conditions, including wide-open throttle (WOT) conditions. The results indicate that a broad spectrum of alcohol-based fuels can be effectively utilized in a properly modified engine functioning as a range extender. Carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuels were typically below 100 g per cold start. The fuel substitution did not require any fuel-specific modifications to the engine or fuel system. Minor variations in the air-to-fuel ratio were observed when introducing fuels with a higher hydrogen-to-carbon (H/C) ratio, due to the use of a Heated Exhaust Gas Oxygen (HEGO) sensor for air-fuel ratio control. Consequently, a change in the switching voltage threshold (a control system constant) was demonstrated, with emphasis on compliance with current stringent emission standards.
Pechout, Martin
Computational Fluid-Dynamics Analysis of the Effect of Ethanol-Air Mixture Supply in a Heavy-Duty Engine2025-24-00299/7/2025
As part of the Bio-FiRE-for-EVer research project aiming to propose a solution for off-grid charging stations based on the adoption of a reciprocating engine, this study investigated the combustion development and pollutant emissions of an 8.7 l six-cylinder heavy-duty PFI internal combustion engine fueled by ethanol. The reference experimental case features critical issues in the formation of the air-fuel, mainly due to the slow evaporation rate of the alcohol fuel inside the intake manifold via a single point injection, providing a non-uniform and averagely rich (λ=0.89) reactant mixture inside the cylinders. For this purpose, an in-depth analysis of the in-cylinder phenomena is performed by using a CFD solver for the reacting flow. A geometry of the cylinder system complete with intake and exhaust ducts is created for calculations with the three-dimensional Ansys FORTE code. The inclusion of the inlet duct in the computational domain allows the experiencing of several setups of the mixture. Indeed, due to the uncertainties on the complete vaporization of ethanol, experimental data allowed a preliminary validation of the CFD based predictions by considering the presence of liquid fuel fraction (30%) in the inlet duct. After the model calibration, firstly, a more favorable air-fuel ratio condition of λ=1 is examined and then, two alternative solutions are proposed to optimize the engine performance via a multipoint injection upstream of the intake valves but still considering a rich mixture. Based on the results it is demonstrated that the presence of liquid represents a more realistic condition achieving outputs closer to the experimental measurements. The adjustment of air-fuel ratio to a stoichiometric value by only enhancing the amount of air leads to significant improvements in terms of mechanical outputs and CO emissions. Besides, an optimized injection setup can overcome the maldistribution of fuel among cylinders, its incomplete oxidation and reduce the percentage of fuel that remains liquid forming a film on the duct’s wall.
De Robbio, Roberta, Cameretti, Maria Cristina, Palomba, Marco, Tuccillo, Raffaele
Advanced Plasma-Based Ignition Strategy for Future Spark Ignition Engines2025-24-00209/7/2025
Internal combustion engines will continue to play an important role in transportation for decades to come because of the high onboard energy density. For present passenger vehicles, efforts have been made to reduce the cold start emissions and improve engine efficiency. To reach such goals, lean and diluted mixtures are needed to reduce the chemical reactivity of the mixture, so a higher engine compression ratio can improve thermal efficiency. The decreased flame temperature of the lean/diluted mixtures is also beneficial for NOx reduction. Strong in-cylinder flow is needed to increase flame propagation speed for efficient and complete combustion process. Strong ignition sources are needed to provide robust ignition to support the combustion process. In this paper, the application of advanced plasma-based ignition strategies was reviewed, with special attention to the on-demand plasma energy profiling, which has flexible control over discharge duration and current amplitudes. The ignition performance of multi-core ignition is compared with on-demand energy profiling under cold start and engine idling conditions. For heavy-duty applications burning low and zero carbon renewable fuels with less chemical reactivity, such as ammonia and natural gas, a novel ignition source with remote chamber and detonation tube is also demonstrated for the first time. The air-fuel mixture in the remote ignition chamber can be ignited, and the flame front can propagate and accelerate along the detonation tube to detonation stage, known as the deflagration-to-detonation transition. The high-speed detonation wave has a much stronger ignition capability to improve combustion efficiency of mixture with low chemical reactivities.
Yu, Xiao, Leblanc, Simon, Reader, Graham, Zheng, Ming
Experimental Assessment of Different NO x Storage Catalysts for Transient Emission Management in DI H 2 Fueled ICE2025-24-00799/7/2025
One of the emerging technologies to effectively decarbonize the transportation sector in the Heavy-Duty and Non-Road segment is the Hydrogen fueled Internal Combustion Engine (H2-ICE). Although completely free of carbon content, and therefore CO2, the H2-ICE exhaust still releases NOx as harmful byproducts of the combustion process. Furthermore, it is well known that H2-ICE NOx emissions are very sensitive to combustion air-to-fuel ratio (λ) and hence are much higher during load increase when λ is lowered (λ<2) to reach the target level of performance. Therefore, to comply with most stringent emission regulations, it is paramount to equip the H2-ICE with an aftertreatment system capable to handle the NOx peaks generated during transient operations with extremely high efficiency. The present work provides indication for the transposition of catalyst formulations well-known for compression-ignited ICE to Direct Injection H2-ICEs for effectively storing and converting NOx within their combustion boundaries. Different catalysts were characterized throughout a series of lab reactor tests where the gas species measured in the H2-ICE exhaust stream were provided with defined combinations and assessed with respect to NOx storage capacity, NOx conversion efficiency, NH3 production. This research work demonstrates the influence of the O2/H2 ratio in the gas mixture on the catalytic performance.
Blangetti, Nicola, Pozzi, Chiara, Ciaravino, Claudio, Deorsola, Fabio, Galletti, Camilla
Integrated CFD-Experimental Methodology for Hydrogen-Fuelled Small Loop Scavenged Two-Stroke Engines2025-24-00149/7/2025
This paper presents an integrated methodology for the analysis of hydrogen-fueled 2-Stroke engines, combining experimental data, 1D-CFD simulations, and 3D-CFD combustion calculations. The proposed approach aims to enhance the understanding of scavenging, injection, and combustion processes in a 50 cm3 loop-scavenged engine with low-pressure direct hydrogen injection, experimentally studied on a test bench. The hydrogen-fueled engine was capable of achieving a maximum power output of 3.1 kW, using a slightly lean air-to-fuel ratio (lambda = 1.3). The maximum engine speed for stable combustion without knocking was achieved at wide open throttle at 7119 RPM. The developed 1D-CFD model, based on the engine layout at the test bench, was calibrated using average experimental data and specific full load operating points. 3D-CFD simulations were performed for one full load operating point, focusing on combustion dynamics and fuel distribution within the chamber, with combustion model parameters calibrated to ensure consistency with experimental data. The integrated approach resulted in a good agreement between numerical results and experimental data. The proposed methodology enables accurate model calibration and a deeper understanding of complex physical phenomena, representing a valuable tool for the development of low emission engines.
Caprioli, Stefano, Ferretti, Luca, Scrignoli, Francesco, Fiaschi, Matteo, D'Elia, Matteo, Oswald, Roland, Schoegl, Oliver, Nambully, Suresh Kumar, Rothbauer, Rainer, Mattarelli, Enrico, Kirchberger, Roland, Rinaldini, Carlo
A Novel Chemical Kinetics-Based Approach for Studying Feasibility and Optimise Retrofitting Strategies of Hydrogen CI Engines: Application to a Laboratory-Scale Single-Cylinder Engine2025-24-00549/7/2025
The climate emergency has prompted countries to adopt strategies to limit the rise in global temperatures by promoting low-carbon technologies. In this context, hydrogen (H2) can be considered a viable solution, especially in road and marine transportation, where Compression Ignition (CI) internal combustion engines (ICEs) are widely used. Despite its potential to significantly reduce pollutant emissions compared to fossil fuels, hydrogen presents a major challenge for CI engines due to its high autoignition temperature (greater than diesel). To overcome this problem, a novel methodology is proposed to evaluate the feasibility of hydrogen retrofitting. Each engine operating point is simulated as an ideal zero-dimensional (0D) reactor into which a diesel-hydrogen-air mixture is introduced. A fully detailed kinetic mechanism is used to simulate the complex chemical interactions between the two fuels, as well as its significant effect on engine behaviour, obtaining accurate predictions of autoignition timing. Three distinct time-based criteria are introduced to assess whether autoignition occurs during the compression stroke, and if so, to identify the corresponding crank angle. This information guides the selection of an appropriate hydrogen retrofitting strategy. The proposed methodology is validated against experimental data from a 500 cm3 CI single-cylinder research engine (SCRE) operated at CNR-STEMS. Two dual-fuel test cases at 1500 and 2000 revolutions per minute (rpm) are simulated. The comparison of the numerical results with respect to the experimental data demonstrates a good prediction within a discrepancy of 7°. Finally, for the mentioned test cases, the numerical model is applied to a local subdomain for estimating the local mixture composition at which autoignition experimentally occurs.
Episcopo, Domenico, Rossetti, Salvatore, Mancaruso, Ezio, Saponaro, Gianmarco, Camporeale, Sergio, Laera, Davide
Water Injection as an Enabling Technology for Stoichiometric High Performance Normally Aspirated Engines2025-24-00279/7/2025
The mainstream automotive market is rapidly transitioning to electrified and fully electric powertrains. Where gasoline engines are still employed, they are frequently turbocharged units with relatively low maximum engine speed and modest power density. The hypercar class, in contrast, has recently seen somewhat of a renaissance in high performance, high speed, naturally aspirated gasoline engines, which are prized for their emotional contribution to the vehicle. In order to guarantee high conversion efficiency of a Three Way Catalyst in the exhaust system, an engine must be operated at stoichiometric air-fuel ratio. At high power density, this may result in very high exhaust gas temperature, which poses a risk to engine and vehicle hardware. A number of technological interventions to extend the maximum stoichiometric performance whilst respecting component limitations have already been described in the literature, but many of these are not applicable to specific engine architectures in the hypercar niche. This work describes some of the unique challenges for such vehicle types in achieving stoichiometric operation in all conditions and identifies water injection as a key enabling technology. An experimental campaign on a high speed normally aspirated mule engine with water injectors installed in the intake ports is described. This is supported by Computational Fluid Dynamics calculations with detailed chemistry and bench testing of the injectors using Phase Doppler Anemometry and momentum flux techniques. It is shown that stoichiometry can be maintained at peak power, but some further complementary technologies may be of interest to limit water consumption and ensure an adequate combustion stability.
Corrigan, Dáire James, Villa, Davide, Penazzi, Eugenio, Meghani, Amit, Knop, Vincent, Caroli, Giacomo, Frigeri, Davide, Ruggiero, Federico, Malaguti, Simone, Postrioti, Lucio, Maka, Cristian
Effects of Varying the Air-Fuel Equivalence Ratio at Different EGR-Rates on a Medium-Speed LNG-Diesel Dual-Fuel Engine2025-24-00419/7/2025
The dual-fuel combustion process, which is offered as a retrofit solution for conventional diesel engines by various manufacturers, represents an option for reducing emissions from internal combustion engines and is already available today. Current dual-fuel engines run on liquefied natural gas (LNG), which is usually of fossil origin. Due to the existing infrastructure and the possibility of producing LNG by means of electrolysis and methanation, LNG can already be produced in a 100% climate-neutral way and thus make a contribution to climate neutrality in the shipping industry. The adoption of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems in the maritime sector became more significant in 2020 following the enforcement of the sulphur emission cap. By lowering the sulphur content in the fuel, technologies in the exhaust tract are also conceivable without the use of expensive scrubber systems. Dual-fuel LNG/diesel engines are typically operated in lean-burn mode to reduce the risk of knocking and to comply with the nitrogen oxide limits in accordance with IMO TIER III. However, one disadvantage of the lean-burn combustion process is climate-damaging methane (CH4) slip due to incomplete combustion. To address this issue, an EGR system can be employed to mitigate nitrous oxides (NOx) emissions and prevent engine knocking at richer air-fuel mixtures, as an alternative to increasing the air-fuel equivalence ratio lambda. In the context of this paper, experimental investigations are conducted on a single cylinder medium speed dual-fuel engine, where EGR rates of up to 35% are examined across various lambda values. The adjustment of lambda is achieved by varying the charge air pressure using an externally driven compressor station for charge air supply. The results of the presented investigations provide insights into the emission reduction potential of a targeted variation in EGR rates and lambda, thus making an important contribution to more environmentally friendly ship propulsion systems.
Seipel, Pascal, Glauner, Manuel, Dinwoodie, Jules, Buchholz, Bert
Smart Ignition Coil for H2 ICE Application with Combustion Diagnostic System for Misfire Detection2025-24-00589/7/2025
The transition to decarbonized transportation necessitates significant modifications to internal combustion engines for alternative carbon-neutral fuels, particularly hydrogen. The integration of alternative systems is crucial for improving engine control, facilitating real-time engine health monitoring and facilitate early problem detection. This study investigates the potentialities of an ignition system specifically designed for H2 applications, with the integration of a smart coil diagnostic system with the aim to enhance engine performance and control capabilities. Experiments were conducted on a single-cylinder research engine across varying spark advanced, throttle positions, and engine speeds, comparing the novel ignition system with integrated diagnostics against traditional spark plug. Results demonstrate improvements in combustion stability and control when innovative spark plug was employed. Compared to a conventional spark plug, the Hy2Fire® system consistently delivered superior performance, achieving a peak indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP) of 4.85 bar (vs 4.68 bar) and maintaining a coefficient of variance of IMEP (CoVIMEP) below 2% across a broad range of conditions. The system demonstrated earlier combustion phasing (AI50 reduced by over 1 CAD) and improved combustion stability, especially under lean-burn (λ = 2.0) scenarios. Analyzing diagnostic signals from the smart coil's secondary spark current offers a promising avenue for evaluating combustion quality and its relationship to in-cylinder pressure, thus representing significant advancements. A dual-method approach, employing artificial intelligence algorithms for signal processing, enabled precise identification of maximum in-cylinder pressure with an error below 10%, and detection of anomalies such as misfire events. This analysis facilitated the precise identification of in-cylinder maximum pressure, a crucial parameter for engine performance evaluation, and the detection of critical anomalies such as misfire, which can severely impact engine longevity and efficiency. The system's behavior under the varying operating conditions tested has been thoroughly analyzed, highlighting its robustness and adaptability.
Ricci, Federico, Papi, Stefano, Avana, Massimiliano, Dal Re, Massimo, Grimaldi, Carlo
Experimental Analysis of Enhanced Scavenging Efficiency in Hydrogen-Powered Internal Combustion Engines for Heavy-Duty Applications2025-24-00569/7/2025
The purpose of this work is to highlight the benefits of improved scavenging efficiency for premixed, lean-burn, spark-ignited heavy-duty engines fueled by hydrogen. Scavenging efficiency measures the effectiveness of replacing exhaust gases with fresh air (or an air-fuel mixture) within the cylinder of an internal combustion engine. Enhanced scavenging efficiency reduces residual gas content and increases the proportion of fresh air, resulting in a cooler local mixture temperature. Additionally, it improves heat dissipation within the combustion chamber, cooling potential hotspots and allowing for earlier injections with fewer restrictions due to combustion anomalies, particularly pre-ignitions. To increase scavenging efficiency in a 4-stroke internal combustion engine, valve timing adjustments were made by introducing a valve lift profile with greater overlap of the exhaust valve closing and the inlet valve opening sequences. Additionally, a high-efficiency turbocharger was used to reduce backpressure and thereby increase the pressure gradient across the engine and promote scavenging. A test campaign was conducted on a 12.9-liter inline 6-cylinder heavy-duty engine to determine the impact of increased scavenging efficiency. The benefits were quantified using indicators such as intake and exhaust manifold pressures and maximum power output. In addition to an engine map and a full-load performance study, start-of-injection trade-offs were made at various engine speeds, loads, and different lambda targets. The test results confirmed the anticipated improvements. The increased valve overlap, and the high-efficiency turbocharger led to enhanced volumetric efficiency and a greater negative pressure differential between the intake and exhaust manifolds. These enhancements were particularly beneficial in the high-load area, where high boost pressure is essential to achieve the desired lambda value. At lower loads, where the engine typically operates in throttled conditions with a positive pressure gradient, no deterioration was observed. In summary, implementing the scavenging concept enabled the engine to operate more stable and achieve on average approximately 15 % higher performance without experiencing pre-ignition. Additionally, the lower local mixture temperature reduced thermal stress on the combustion chamber hardware, which helps mitigate wear and potential engine damage.
Schuette, Christoph, Borg, Jonathan, Giordana, Sergio, Rapetto, Nicola
Investigation of the Combustion Process of a Thermally Conditioned Active Prechamber in Monovalent Operation with Ammonia2025-24-00289/7/2025
The debate over synthetic fuels is intense especially in sectors with a high energy demand like maritime [1, 2]. Hydrogen production from renewable sources is growing, but immediate measures for decarbonization are needed [3, 4]. In this context, the project MethMag was funded, and a gas engine for methane combustion with an innovative cooling concept and a purged prechamber (PC) spark plug was virtually developed [5, 6]. Validation with data from the test bench demonstrates that the simulations accurately represent the operating conditions [7, 8]. This combustion process is adapted for ammonia, which is being considered as a climate-friendly fuel of the future, particularly in maritime transportation [4, 9]. This fuel faces significant combustion challenges and is therefore mostly considered in complex, bivalent systems [10]. In particular, the prechamber is examined regarding the ignitability of ammonia. The overarching objective is to eliminate the necessity for a secondary fuel system, thereby reducing system complexity and associated costs. The transition to ammonia highlights the need for further adjustments. The geometry of the PC cap significantly affects turbulence and mixture formation in the prechamber [11]. While swirl caps generate high turbulence, the mixture formation is inadequate. Tumble caps, on the other hand, provide advantages in mixture formation by achieving an earlier increase in turbulence, even though the maximum turbulence is lower. For ammonia combustion, PC wall conditioning is not essential, given the inherently low combustion temperatures. However, conditioning can improve cold-start behavior by accelerating PC combustion and offering greater flexibility in ignition timing [12]. Direct injection into the prechamber enhances fuel mixing and reduces sensitivity to ignition timing adjustments. This leads to higher efficiency and better combustion characteristics, particularly at lean air-fuel ratios [13, 14]. Operating with a lean ammonia-air mixture is challenging but offers benefits for non-selective catalytic reduction (non-SCR) of nitrogen oxides. Simulations show that operation with λ = 1.2 and λ = 1.4 is feasible, although efficiency decreases at leaner mixtures [15].
Rothe, Paul, Bikas, Georgios, Mauss, Fabian
Experimental and Numerical Study on the Performance and Exhaust Emissions of a Single-Cylinder Natural Gas Large Bore Engine Equipped with Passive Pre-Chamber2025-24-00229/7/2025
The maritime industry is among the most energy-intensive sectors, and achieving fleet decarbonization is crucial to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As a transitional fuel, natural gas (NG) presents a viable short-to-midterm solution. Compared to conventional marine fuels, NG has the potential to lower carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 20–30%. However, to fully leverage this potential on carbon footprint reduction, substantial advancements in combustion technologies are required. One promising approach to enhance the efficiency of SI NG engines is the implementation of Passive Pre-Chamber (PPC) technology. This strategy enables leaner combustion, improving thermal efficiency, mitigating the occurrence of knocking, and reducing NOx emissions. This study presents both experimental and numerical investigations to analyze the impact of charge dilution and ignition timing on the performance and emissions of a single-cylinder prototype NG PPC SI engine for marine application, retrofitted from baseline diesel architecture. Numerical simulations combining 1D and 3D CFD approaches were used to guide the combustion system and engine component design, optimizing valve timing, compression ratio, and fuel injection parameters to mitigate knock and improve thermal efficiency. Based on numerical simulations, excess air effects on thermodynamic efficiency and flame speed were evaluated. The experimental tests were conducted at 1500 rpm constant engine speed under different load conditions. Variation of the air-to-fuel ratio and spark advance were performed to characterize their effects on engine operation. The results were utilized to validate a 1D model, which demonstrated a high level of accuracy in reproducing the combustion evolution. PPC technology enabled high charge dilution (λ≈1.7). The coefficient of variation of IMEP remained below 1.5% throughout a wide range of λ values and combustion phasing conditions, indicating stable combustion. The engine exhibited indicated efficiencies of over 45%, marginally exceeding the predictions obtained from numerical simulations. This research underscores the potential of PPC technology in enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of NG-fueled marine engines, offering valuable insights to optimize combustion strategies for future low-emission propulsion systems.
Marchitto, Luca, Pesce, Francesco, Accurso, Francesco, Tornatore, Cinzia, Gorietti, Valentina, Buzzi, Luca, Grosso, Alessandro, Luci, Matteo, Napolitano, Pierpaolo, Pennino, Vincenzo, Beatrice, CARLO, Di Domenico, Davide, Giardino, Angelo
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