Browse Topic: Liquefied petroleum gas

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Impact of LPG Composition on Performance, Emissions and Combustion Characteristics of a Spark-ignited CFR Engine2022-01-056403/29/2022
Research on alternative fuels has made significant progress as demands for cleaner and efficient engine operation intensifies. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) can offer a potential alternative fuel route in the Diesel fuel dominated heavy-duty transportation sector due to its low cost, high anti-knock limit relative to gasoline, and reduced emission levels. In this work, experimental investigations are performed to study the effects of LPG compositions on performance, emissions, and combustion behavior of a cooperative fuel research (CFR) engine under stoichiometric conditions. Four LPG blends (chemically pure propane, a representative US blend, HD5, and a representative European blend) representing the present LPG market are chosen. The impact of fuel composition is studied under different compression ratios (CR) ranging from 7:1 to 10:1 with one-unit increments. The results show that fuel composition has minimal effect on engine efficiency over the CR range. Engine-out emissions are
Fosudo, Toluwalase, Kar, Tanmay, Marchese, Anthony, Windom, Bret, Olsen, Daniel
Technical Paper
Detailed Combustion Analysis of a Supercharged Double-Fueled Spark Ignition Engine03-15-04-002611/10/2021
The main goal of researches in the field of automotive engineering is to obtain a large-scale implementation of low- or zero-emissions vehicles in order to substantially reduce air pollution in urban areas. A fundamental step toward this green transition is represented by the improvement of current internal combustion (IC) engines in terms of fuel economy and pollutant emissions. The spark ignition (SI) engines of modern light-duty vehicles are supercharged, down-sized, and equipped with direct injection. Gaseous fuels, such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or natural gas (NG), proved to be a valid alternative to gasoline in order to reduce pollutant emissions and increase fuel economy. In previous works the authors investigated the simultaneous combustion, in an SI engine, of gasoline and a gaseous fuel (referred to as Double-Fuel operation, DF) both in the naturally aspirated and supercharged version; a significant increment of engine efficiency and a great reduction of pollutant
Beccari, Stefano, Pipitone, Emiliano
Journal Article
Closed Loop Control of the Combustion Phase in SI Engines Using Alternative Fuels2020-01-208809/15/2020
Combustion engines using alternative and/or renewable fuels are vital to reduce emission of greenhouse gases. The property of such fuels may vary significantly. The heat release rate of bio and natural gas varies of natural reasons, which is known to cause problems when used in internal combustion engines. Hydrogen is an attractive renewable fuel that has a high potential to reduce greenhouse gas emission. Bio and natural gas can be mixed with hydrogen and the content may vary depending on the availability, e.g., depending on the production from solar and wind power. Variations in the fuel property reduces the engine efficiency, unless the combustion phase is estimated and the ignition (combustion) timing is adapted to compensate for the varying fuel property. Hereby the drivability can be improved, and the fuel consumption decreased significantly, reducing the total cost of ownership and emission of greenhouse gases. However, there is not yet any widespread industrially available
Aengeby, Jakob
Journal Article
Enhanced Fabrication Improves Temperature Sensing in Cryogenic Humid EnvironmentsTBMG-3747108/01/2020
A team of researchers at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center have developed a new manufacturing process that improves the ability of fiber optic sensing systems to measure temperature and liquid levels when operating in humid environments. The process involves eliminating moisture from the optical fiber coating, then completing the sensor assembly within humidity-controlled conditions. The resulting sensor hardware provides precise and accurate measurements even when operating in a humid environment. Originally designed to monitor a rocket’s cryogenic fuel levels in conjunction with NASA’s patented Fiber Optic Sensing System (FOSS), this technology can be used in many industrial, food, and medical applications.
Magazine Article
Reconsidering CNG as an alt-fuel solution20AUTP05_1005/01/2020
As CO2 emission standards continue to tighten, the future of the IC engine may be inexorably tied to alternative fuels. As automakers seek propulsion solutions delivering convenience and performance similar to gasoline or diesel, without radical changes to infrastructure, some experts say it's time to reconsider the gaseous-fuel alternative. OEMs and markets have largely rejected CNG (compressed natural gas) and LNG (liquified natural gas), preferring hybridization as a steppingstone to full electrification. Those fuels did not enter mainstream use “because their benefits have been compromised by dual-fuel installations that require the engine to also operate on gasoline,” argues Mike Bassett, chief engineer for research at Mahle Powertrain.
Birch, Stuart
Magazine Article
Aging of a Multi-Hole Diesel Injector and Its Effect on the Rate of Injection2020-01-082904/14/2020
In order to comply with the increasingly restrictive limits of emissions and fuel consumption, researches are focusing on improving the efficiency of combustion engines. In this area, the aging of the injector and its effect on the injection development is not entirely analyzed. In this work, the rate of injection of a diesel injector at different stages of its lifetime is analyzed. To this end, a multi-hole piezoelectric injector was employed, comparing the injection rate measured at the beginning of its lifetime to the rate provided by the injector after aging, maintaining the same boundary conditions in both measurements. Injection pressures up to 200 MPa were used throughout the experiments. The results showed that the steady-state rate of injection was lower after the injector aged. Furthermore, the injector took a longer time to close the needle and end the injection, in comparison with the measurements done at earlier stages of its lifetime. To explain this phenomenon
Payri, Raul, Salvador, Francisco Javier, Gimeno, Jaime, Montiel, Tomas
Journal Article
Mazda details electrification strategy, confirms rotary engine's return18AUTP11_0611/01/2018
In an announcement from Japan in October, Mazda-one of the few established automakers to articulate a comprehensive longterm commitment to hybridization or all-electric vehicle propulsion-said it intends to incorporate some type of electrification in all its vehicles by 2030. Yet in nearly the same virtual breath, the company affirmed its connection to “soulful” forms of internal combustion, including a confirmation that it will renew its longstanding enthusiasm for the rotary engine. In a carefully-worded statement, Mazda reminded that many credible forecasts call for internal combustion to remain the dominant light-vehicle propulsion source for perhaps decades to come, while discretely laying out its plan for electrification-when and where it makes sense for the environment.
Visnic, Bill
Magazine Article
Realizing Stoichiometric, Natural Gas-Fueled Combustion in Diesel Engines2018-01-114804/03/2018
For high-load applications, natural gas represents a clean burning, readily available, and relatively inexpensive alternative to number 2 Diesel fuel. However, the fuel’s poor ignitability has previously limited implementation to spark ignited and dual-fueled engines. These approaches suffer from reduced peak load and high engine-out particulate emissions, respectively, requiring lean operation and expensive aftertreatment to meet regulatory standards. A high-temperature combustion strategy can overcome the difficult ignitibility, allowing for true Diesel-style combustion of pure methane-the least ignitable and least sooting component of natural gas. In order to achieve this result, a compression system was designed to supply fuel at pressures suitably high to achieve good mixing and short injection durations, and a solenoid-actuated Diesel fuel injector was modified to function at these pressures with a gaseous fuel. This fuel supply system was paired with a single-cylinder research
Oliver, Nathaniel, Edwards, Chris
Technical Paper
Flexible, Gravity-Fed Heat PipeTBMG-2854403/01/2018
The advent of cryocooler technology ushers in an era where a cryogenic environment is created and maintained locally. It is no longer necessary to transport cryogen from a factory where it is produced to the location where it is needed. One problem remains for cooling large cryogenic systems with cryocoolers that extract more than 50 W of power. Although high-capacity cryocoolers are available from several commercial sources, the thermal link for connecting the cryocooler to a large system is not yet available. For small systems requiring less heat extraction, flexible heat straps made of braided copper wires are available for the thermal link. For heat extraction of more than 50 W at −100 K, this type of heat strap cannot be made short enough and flexible enough.
Magazine Article
Powertrain mix for CVs in Europe set to diversify, but cost is critical18TOFHP02_1002/01/2018
The European Commission looks set to continue its move away from diesel, prompting manufacturers to assess future powertrain options for commercial vehicles. As many cities across Europe call for improved air quality, the Commission has proposed new targets for EU fleet-wide average CO2 emissions of new passenger cars and vans. Under its second Mobility Package proposal, average CO2 emissions from cars and vans would be cut by 15% by 2025 and should be 30% lower in 2030, compared to current plans for 2021.
Gilkes, Dan
Magazine Article
Cryogenic and Non-Cryogenic Liquid Level InstrumentTBMG-2818501/01/2018
NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center has developed a unique prototype for measuring the liquid level in a tank, employing a novel process. The technology can operate in a wide range of environments, including high and low temperatures and pressures, and is simpler and less expensive than other optical sensing techniques. The instrument also provides far greater accuracy and faster results in cryogenic conditions than typical cryogenic liquid metering methods. It is ideal for cryogenic and non-cryogenic ground tank metering applications, and zero-gravity systems that include stratification or settling techniques.
Magazine Article
Effects of Low Temperature Combustion on Particle and Gaseous Emission of a Dual Fuel Light Duty Engine2017-24-008109/04/2017
In recent years the use of alternative fuels for internal combustion engines has had a strong push coming from both technical and economic-environmental aspects. Among these, gaseous fuels such as liquefied petroleum gas and natural gas have occupied a segment no longer negligible in the automotive industry, thanks to their adaptability, anti-knock capacity, lower toxicity of pollutants, reduced CO2 emissions and cost effectiveness. On the other hand, diesel engines still represent the reference category among the internal combustion engines in terms of fuel consumptions. The possibility offered by the dual fuel systems, to combine the efficiency and performance of a diesel engine with the environmental advantages of gaseous fuels, has been long investigated. However the simple replacement of diesel fuel with natural gas does not allow to optimize the performance of the engine due to the high THC emissions particularly at lower loads. Increasing the injection timing of pilot diesel
De Simio, Luigi, Gambino, Michele, Iannaccone, Sabato
Technical Paper
Potential and Challenges of HPDI2017-01-192805/10/2017
Globally, many jurisdictions are working toward greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions standards for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles that will take effect in the next decade and require GHG reductions of up to 25% from 2017 legislated levels. While diesel engines will require increasingly complex improvements, high pressure direct injection (HPDI) of natural gas can provide GHG reductions of approximately 20% (75% or more with renewable natural gas / bio-methane) while preserving the same power density, torque and performance as diesel. This paper will provide an overview of the improvements in the Westport™ HPDI 2.0 components as well as performance and emissions results demonstrated to-date. The potential and challenges of higher injection pressures will be explored while also investigating sources of and methods to eliminate methane venting on the vehicle.
Mumford, David, Goudie, Dale, Saunders, James
Technical Paper
Investigations of the Effect of Humid Air on NOx and PM Emissions of a CNG Engine2017-01-078303/28/2017
The investigation has been divided into two parts. In part one, numerical investigations of the effect of humid air with different levels of humidity on gaseous emissions of a non-premixed combustion have been investigated. This part of the investigation was a feasibility study, focused on how different levels of humidity in the intake air affects the exhaust NO emission. Part two of the investigation was verification of the numerical results with a naturally aspirated engine with natural gas as the fuel. Here, we also investigated the impact of humid air intake on engine’s particulate matter (PM) emission. For the numerical investigations, the non-premixed combustion in a single cylinder was simulated using the presumed probability density function combustion model. Simulations were performed for dry as well as humid intake air for 0%, 15%, and 30% relative humidity (RH). Numerical results have shown 65% reduction in NO emission at 15% RH, when compared with NO emission of dry intake
Rahai, Hamid R., Lee, Yong, rahimi, Najmeh, Gada, Komal
Technical Paper
Cryogenic Liquid Level Sensor Apparatus and MethodTBMG-2529909/01/2016
Innovators at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center have developed a highly accurate method for measuring liquid levels using optical fibers. Unlike liquid level gauges currently on the market that rely on discrete measurements to give broad approximations of liquid levels, Armstrong’s innovative fiber optic method provides precise and accurate measurements. Specifically, Armstrong’s novel method is capable of providing measurements at 1/4-inch intervals within a tank. This significant leap forward in precision and accuracy in liquid level sensing offers significant benefits to many industries. Originally designed by NASA to monitor a rocket’s cryogenic fuel levels, this technology can be used in many medical, industrial, and pharmaceutical applications.
Magazine Article
An Experimental Study of the Combustion, Performance and Emission Characteristics of a CI Engine under Diesel-1-Butanol/CNG Dual Fuel Operation Mode2016-01-078804/05/2016
In order to comply with the stringent emission regulations, many researchers have been focusing on diesel-compressed natural gas (CNG) dual fuel operation in compression ignition (CI) engines. The diesel-CNG dual fuel operation mode has the potential to reduce both the soot and NOx emissions; however, the thermal efficiency is generally lower than that of the pure diesel operation, especially under the low and medium load conditions. The current experimental work investigates the potential of using diesel-1-butanol blends as the pilot fuel to improve the engine performance and emissions. Fuel blends of B0 (pure diesel), B10 (90% diesel and 10% 1-butanol by volume) and B20 (80% diesel and 20% 1-butanol) with 70% CNG substitution were compared based on an equivalent input energy at an engine speed of 1200 RPM. The results indicated that the diesel-1-butanol pilot fuel can lead to a more homogeneous mixture due to the longer ignition delay. Using certain multiple injection strategies
Meng, Xiangyu, Nithyanandan, Karthik, Lee, Timothy, Li, Yuqiang, Long, Wuqiang, Lee, Chia-Fon
Technical Paper
Vehicle Design, Battery Design and Distribution Model to Implement Battery Swapping in Battery Electric Vehicles, by Drawing Parallels with the Indian LPG-Distribution Network which has Effectively Implemented Cylinder-Swapping Methodology2016-28-002402/01/2016
To increase the range of a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), a lot of ideas have been proposed. A prominent one among them is the Battery swapping methodology or Rapid Battery Interchange (RBI), where standardized batteries can easily be removed from the BEV and replaced with recharged batteries quickly. The feasibility of this methodology has been highly debated and contested. This paper studies the feasibility of a very popular distribution and maintenance network currently used for LPG distribution in India, to be applied to battery distribution used across different makes and models of BEVs. In India, 33.6 million households subscribe to LPG Cylinders for domestic cooking usage. These standard sized (14.2Kg) cylinders are refilled and redistributed via multiple public sector and private companies. The paper also focuses on another advantage that can be borrowed from this system, which is the ability of the government to subsidies this resource, allowing quick mass-outreach of the
Rai, Aditya, Vijh, Sanchit, Sethupathi, P Baskara
Technical Paper
Hybrid Laminate Composite for Harsh Environments and High-Performance ApplicationsTBMG-2285209/01/2015
A multi-functional composite laminate material has been developed for structural and thermal applications for use in durable cryogenic fuel tanks for transportation vehicles and/or in the construction of habitats. The technology focuses on aerogel and fiber composites integrated into unique layups with thermal and mechanical energy absorption capabilities. The lightweight laminate composite system has multi-functionality for both high- and low-temperature applications. Combining structural and thermal attributes, the innovation is a lightweight aerogel-fiber laminate composite system with good compressive strength, tailorable for impact and acoustic energy absorption, reduced heat transfer, and/or fire barrier properties.
Magazine Article
Model-Based Control for Air-Fuel Ratio of Natural Gas Fueled SI Engines2014-01-258510/13/2014
This paper proposes a fast and simple model of a Compressed Natural Gas indirect injection system to predict the system dynamics with high accuracy for different operating conditions. In a retrofit system the CNG Engine Control Unit (ECU) is able to translate the petrol ECU control strategy in CNG operation. The adaptation of the engine to the natural gas type is handled by using the factory engine control strategy embodied in the factory ECU. The ECU monitors the engine through various sensors and controls its operation using a variety of actuators. Because of many input parameters, the control over the engine becomes quite complex. The use of advanced emission control systems makes such process even more complicated. The new Gas Control Unit is used to reprogram the ECU control parameters to correspond with the use of Natural Gas along with the characteristics of the Natural Gas injectors. Since gaseous fuels are not affected by evaporation effects, the intake fuel-air mixing
Wendeker, Miroslaw, Baranski, Grzegorz, Magryta, Pawel
Technical Paper
Uniform Provisions Concerning the: Measures to be Taken Against the Emission of Gaseous and Particulate Pollutants from Compression-Ignition Engines for Use in Vehicles, and the Emission of Gaseous Pollutants from Positive-Ignition Engines Fuelled with Natural Gas or Liquefied Petroleum Gas for Use in Vehicles.INT-REG-63007/22/2014
Emissions - Heavy Duty Vehicles.
Regulation
Comparison of Life Cycle Greenhouse Gas Emissions of Conventional, CNG-Hybrid and Electric Powertrains for Long Mileage Application in a Taxi for Singapore2014-01-161604/01/2014
In this analysis we assess the life cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of four types of vehicles which might play a role in achieving future emission reductions: vehicles using compressed natural gas (CNG), battery electric vehicles (BEVs), mild hybrid CNG vehicles and range extended BEVs. Our analysis covers the manufacturing processes of these vehicles and their use as a city taxi in Singapore. We also consider upstream emissions from fuel and electricity production. All necessary parameters are derived from an intensive literature review and the model for calculating the life cycle emissions is presented. The influence of data uncertainties is analyzed by parameter variations within different scenarios. The calculation results are found to be quite robust: The BEV and the mild hybrid CNG vehicle similarly show very low GHG emissions within all scenarios whereas the pure CNG vehicle always ranks the worst. In an additional scenario we also assessed the influence of an improved
Reuter, Benjamin, Gleyzes, Daniel, Lienkamp, Markus
Technical Paper
Q&A with Dr. Pawan Goenka13MEIP12_0112/01/2013
The Executive Director & President-Automotive & Farm Equipment Sectors, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. answers questions on a range of subjects such as auto fuel efficiency, emissions, alternative fuels, safety, telematics, manufacturing, and sustainability. On design of passenger vehicles, what are the new technologies you foresee for better fuel efficiency? Sustainability is by far becoming the single biggest challenge facing the automotive industry. All emerging technologies that will make a meaningful contribution toward enhancing sustainability of the automobile in both manufacturing and in its usage are gaining prominence.
Magazine Article
Dual Fuel Engine - Diesel and Compressed Natural Gas Engine and After Treatment System2013-36-049010/07/2013
With the discovery of oil and gas in the pre-salt Santos and Campos basin, the supply of natural gas (NG) is expected to increase considerably, so the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) in city buses will be an important option for reducing the overall consumption of fossil diesel fuel and a reduction in operating costs in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro Metropolitan Areas in Brazil. A vehicle with an engine that can run on pure diesel or diesel and CNG has advantage over a vehicle that works exclusively with CNG, because when there is no availability or the lack of CNG, the vehicle / engine operates with diesel only. Another benefit of this technology is the resale value in Brazil, because after the life cycle of use in theses two big cities, Urban Buses are sold country side to small cities where CNG is not available. Another great advantage of this system is its robustness and non-dependence of spark ignition and coils, because the combustion will begin with pilot injection of Diesel
Shiraiwa, Nilton Mitsuro, Mozardo, Rodrigo, da Costa, Celso Macarini, Muraro, Wilson, Lemcke, Thomas, Zambotti, Aníbal
Technical Paper
DUAL FUEL - Potential of Combined Combustion of CNG and Diesel Fuel2013-36-013310/07/2013
The continuous increase in the price of diesel fuel, the longer availability of CNG and the potential to reduce CO2 enhances the attractiveness to replace diesel fuel by CNG, especially in the aspiring economic markets. One possibility of this is the portrayal of Dual Fuel operation, using a conventional diesel engine with minor modifications, which can be operated either in diesel or a Dual Fuel (gas/diesel) mode. In this combustion mode, it must be possible to obtain a diesel substitution rate up to a maximum of 90 % and 70% on average, as the actual work indicates. In order to illustrate the potential of such a concept, tests were carried out on a 4 cylinder, 7 litre commercial vehicle engine, which was equipped for external carburation using commercial CNG components, as well as a development control unit with software functionality designed in-house. The objective of the investigations is the calibration of the engine for Dual Fuel operation by optimizing the injection and
Doppelbauer, C., Penz, Mario, Renner, Daniel, Masser, Karl, Dorfer, F.
Technical Paper
A Numerical Investigation of Mixing Characteristics of a Direct-Injection (DI) Engine with Liquefied Petroleum Gas2013-01-013603/25/2013
Mixing characteristics of a Direct-Injection engine with liquefied petroleum gas were numerically investigated using a 3D unsteady Eularian-Lagrangian two-phase model. Numerical results were validated to the experimental data of heat release rate, pressure and mass flow rate of air. The numerical results and experimental data were in a good agreement. Simulations were conducted with various engine operation conditions to investigate the effects of supercharging on the mixing characteristics of the DI engine with LPG. The results showed that the fuel uniformities and evaporation rates of LPG are higher than them of gasoline. Fuel consumption rates and maximum cylinder temperatures of LPG were also higher than them of gasoline.
Lee, Jae Seong, Seo, Juhyeong, Kim, Ho Young, Park, Simsoo
Technical Paper
Influence of Different Natural Gas Blends on the Regulated Emissions, Particle Number and Size Distribution Emissions from a Refuse Hauler Truck2012-01-158309/10/2012
Natural gas is a potential alternative to conventional liquid fuels for use in automotive internal combustion engines. The primary goal of this study is to understand how gas composition changes might impact the performance or emissions of a natural gas vehicle or engine. For this study, a waste hauler truck equipped with a 2001 Cummins 8.3L C Gas Plus lean burn spark-ignited engine and an oxidation catalyst was operated on the William H. Martin Refuse Truck Cycle (RTC). This cycle was developed to simulate waste hauler operation and consists of a transport segment, a curbside pickup segment, and a compaction segment. The vehicle was tested on 7 different gases including two gases representative of Texas and Rocky Mountain Pipeline Gases, a Peruvian LNG, a Middle East LNG-Untreated with high Wobbe number (above 1400), two gases representative of those located within the state that have low methane number (MN) as well as varying hydrocarbon compositions, and a CNG blend produced from an
Karavalakis, George, Hajbabaei, Maryam, Durbin, Thomas, Zheng, Zhongqing, Johnson, Kent
Journal Article
Performance and Emission Analysis of a Single Cylinder Constant Speed Diesel Engine Fuelled with Diesel-Methanol-Isopropyl Alcohol Blends2012-01-168309/10/2012
Performance of a compression ignition engine fuelled with Diesel Methanol blends with Isopropyl alcohol is evaluated. A single-cylinder, air-cooled, direct injection diesel engine developing a power output of 5.2 kW at 1500 rev/min is used. Base data is generated with standard diesel fuel, four fuel blends namely 80:10:10, 70:20:10, 60:20:20 and 50:30;20 percentages by volume of diesel, methanol and isopropyl alcohol were prepared and tested in the diesel engine. Engine performance and emission data were used to optimize the blends for reducing emission and improving performance. Results show improved performance with blends compared to neat fuel. However, 60:20:20 blends recorded a brake thermal efficiency of 35.92% against 30.6% for the neat diesel at maximum brake power without much change in smoke density and NOx emissions. However, little increase in HC emissions were recorded up to 60:20:20 blends and the increase is drastic when the methanol content is above 20%
Chockalingam, Sundarraj, Ganapathy, Saravanan
Technical Paper
Uniform Provisions Concerning the: Measures to be Taken Against the Emission of Gaseous and Particulate Pollutants from Compression-Ignition Engines for Use in Vehicles, and the Emission of Gaseous Pollutants from Positive-Ignition Engines Fuelled with Natural Gas or Liquefied Petroleum Gas for Use in Vehicles.INT-REG-37309/07/2012
Emissions - Heavy Duty Vehicles.
Regulation
Blue Bird Propane Powered Vision School Bus12VSBP1000204/10/2012
Propane autogas, the world?s third most-used engine fuel, powers vehicles, transit buses, and now school buses. Blue Bird has recently launched the Next Generation Vision type C school bus, powered by a ROUSH CleanTech liquid propane autogas fuel system and a Ford 6.8L V10 engine. The bus reduces operating costs by up to 40%, greenhouse gas emissions by up to 24%, and maintains the factory horsepower, torque, and towing capacity ratings. Learn about how school districts are saving over $.30 / mile using this clean, domestically-produced fuel. Presenter Brian Carney, Roush CleanTech.
Carney, Brian
Video
Automotive Engineering International 2012 SAE World Congress Tech Awards12AEID0403_0104/03/2012
The editors of Automotive Engineering International preview the most innovative supplier technologies to be displayed April 24-26 in Detroit at the SAE 2012 World Congress. The top five are highlighted on the following pages, but additional technologies and other event coverage can be viewed online at www.sae.org/mags/aei/saewc. Pinnacle Engines has developed an ultra-efficient engine design based on a four-stroke, spark-ignited (SI), opposed-piston, sleeve-valve architecture using conventional engine manufacturing technology. The company says that the architecture, developed in-house in conjunction with FEV, incorporates two old efficiency ideas into one package, improving both in the process. Opposed-piston engines have been around for quite some time in two-stroke form, but suffer from an emissions perspective. Sleeve-valve engines had some decided advantages in knock resistance and power density, but they too had emissions-related challenges due to the sleeves' lubrication circuit
Magazine Article
Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) as Fuel for Road Heavy Duty Vehicles Technologies and Standardization2011-24-012209/11/2011
Natural Gas Vehicle (NGV) engine technology is mainly based on a well-known and already established engine functioning principle, the Otto engine. The recent developments achieved and the OEMs push for this kind of technology clearly shows the confidence and reliability of this technology, especially when it comes to the use of compressed natural gas (CNG). For the above-mentioned reasons, the number of applications involving NGVs has increased worldwide. Environmental and economic reasons, on the whole, have been the main drive for this diffusion. Natural Gas chemical properties are an irrefutable proof of the advanced behavior, environmentally speaking, of a fuel that emits less CO₂ (due to its carbon-hydrogen balance when compared to other fuels) and less NOx and PM. In many countries, favorable taxation schemes have helped the development and entrance into the market of the NGV technology, especially for the light-duty vehicles. Until now, practically no heavy-duty vehicles or
Bassi, Aldo
Technical Paper
Improving Performance in Indirect, Natural Gas Line Heaters2011-01-101604/12/2011
As a regulated public utility, Consumers Energy constantly struggles to lower operating costs, so that customers can enjoy competitive rates for the natural gas they consume across the state of Michigan. Elimination of line heaters altogether would be one very desirable method of reducing operating cost, unfortunately, Joule Thomson cooling, and the trouble it causes is a fact of life for the natural gas transmission and distribution utilities. Considering this, the operation of line heaters must be optimized so that operating cost can be minimized. Line heaters must be sized appropriately, and controlled so that they are large enough to heat efficiently, but not oversized. Once a heater is installed, the temperature band that it operates within must be set appropriately. This work presents theory that, over time will improve the efficiency of the operation of line heaters within Consumers Energy. Two objectives of this work will be presented. The first objective presented is a model
Jawad, Badih Ali, Adams, Kurt, Marshall, Gerald C.
Technical Paper
Experimental Studies on the Effect of Vaporizer Heating and Transition Temperature in a Bi-Fuel LPG Vehicle2011-26-000601/19/2011
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)-powered vehicles use a pressure regulator/vaporizer to expand and modulate the gas pressure to meet the engine's operational demands. This expansion process is accompanied by a phase change wherein liquid LPG is converted to its gaseous form. This consequently reduces the temperature of the working fluid which may result in freezing (Joule-Thompson effect). In order to aid complete phase change and avoid any freezing, the vaporizer is heated either electrically or by the engine coolant circulation. Any inefficiency in the heating may lead to improper phase change and can result in a phenomenon known as "liquid carryover," wherein a liquid LPG gets entrained in the downstream gas circuit where the gaseous form is demanded. The liquid carryover (if any) leads to the improper engine functioning leading to driveability and emission issues. In bi-fuel (two fuel options - LPG and gasoline) vehicles, operation in LPG is usually avoided until the coolant
Viswanatha, H. C., Shanmugam, R. Muthu, Srinivasan, L., Kankariya, Nilesh M.
Technical Paper
Light Utility VehiclesJ2258_201012-TEST-REC (Historical)12/08/2010
This SAE Standard defines requirements relating to the elements of design, operation, and maintenance of light utility vehicles. The safety specifications in this document apply to any self-propelled, operator-controlled, off-highway vehicle 1829 mm (72 in) or less in overall width, exclusive of added accessories and attachments, operable on three or more wheels, primarily intended to transport material loads or people, with a gross vehicle weight of 2500 kg (5500 lb) or less, and a maximum design speed less than or equal to 40.23 km/h (25 mph). This document is not intended to cover Go-Karts (ASTM F2007-07a), Fun-Karts (ASTM F2011-02e1), Dune Buggies, and all terrain vehicles (ATVs) complying with ANSI/SVIA 1.
Special Purpose Vehicle Committee
Technical Standard
Light Utility VehiclesJ2258_201012 (Historical)12/08/2010
This SAE Standard defines requirements relating to the elements of design, operation, and maintenance of light utility vehicles. The safety specifications in this document apply to any self-propelled, operator-controlled, off-highway vehicle 1829 mm (72 in) or less in overall width, exclusive of added accessories and attachments, operable on three or more wheels, primarily intended to transport material loads or people, with a gross vehicle weight of 2500 kg (5500 lb) or less, and a maximum design speed less than or equal to 40.23 km/h (25 mph). This document is not intended to cover Go-Karts (ASTM F2007-07a), Fun-Karts (ASTM F2011-02e1), Dune Buggies, and all terrain vehicles (ATVs) complying with ANSI/SVIA 1.
Special Purpose Vehicle Committee
Technical Standard
Simulation and Modeling of Bi-Fuel Engine for Improving the Performance Parameters2010-01-203410/05/2010
The strict regulation of environmental laws, the oil price and restricted resources has made the vehicle manufacturers to use other energy resources instead of fuel oil. Iran is recognized as the second holder of gas reservoirs in the world and can use hydrocarbon gases broadly in particular compressed natural gas (CNG) as the fuel for vehicles specifically in its public transportation fleet and thereby reduce the consumption of diesel fuel and gasoline. This will bring about the reduction of environmental pollutants and reduce the economic costs of transportation sector. With regard to the climatic situation of Iran and concerning the existence of broad network of gas distribution, CNG is a suitable alternative for other fuels. Therefore, developing bi-fuel engine (gasoline and CNG) in the short and middle term strategy for achieving this important subject will be necessary. A basic measure for supporting the subject is applied studies for considering and improving the engine
Rezapour, Kambiz, Ebrahimi, Kambiz M., S. Wood, Alastair, Nikranjbar, Abolfath
Technical Paper
Uniform Provisions Concerning the: Measures to be Taken Against the Emission of Gaseous and Particulate Pollutants from Compression-Ignition Engines for Use in Vehicles, and the Emission of Gaseous Pollutants from Positive-Ignition Engines Fuelled with Natural Gas or Liquefied Petroleum Gas for Use in Vehicles.INT-REG-23002/03/2008
Emissions - Heavy Duty Vehicles.
Regulation
Development and Evaluation of a Multipoint Gas Injection System for a Passenger Car2008-28-006701/09/2008
An electronically controlled sequential gas injection system was developed and tested for a 4 cylinder passenger car spark ignition engines. The vehicle is bi-fuelled i.e. it can run with gasoline and CNG fuel based on the need and availability of the fuel. The fuel mode can be selected with a selector switch. The master slave concept was adopted, in this concept output of the gasoline ECU is the input for the gas ECU. Different parameters like injection duration and ignition timing were optimised under idling and different load conditions. The change over performance from gas to petrol and petrol to gas were also analysed. Start-ability, idle stability were also analysed. The effect of gas injection pressure on pulse width and engine stability are also analysed and discussed. After calibration and optimisation vehicle was tested for performance and mass emissions. Test results indicate CO2 emissions are reduced by 25%, CO and HC were comparable and power is reduced by 12 percent in
Khatri, D.S., Rungta, P.
Technical Paper
Crash Safety of CNG-Retrofitted Vehicles - The Consequences for Emergency Response Services2007-01-067904/16/2007
A changed attitude to environmental concerns together with rising fuel prices has resulted in an increasing demand for alternative forms of fuel for vehicle propulsion. In particular, the registration figures for vehicles powered with compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) show strong growth rates in Europe. Both vehicles originally equipped by the manufacturer and those which are retrofitted are very common. To find out more about the technical- and fire safety of retrofitted cars DEKRA Accident Research carried out a crash test in accordance with FMVSS 301. The results were used to prepare a guide for rescue services.
Egelhaaf, Markus, Rücker, Peter, Berg, F. Alexander
Technical Paper
Use of Ethanol along with Biodiesel in Diesel and Jet Fuels on a Stationary Diesel Engine2005-01-367610/24/2005
The present paper is an effort to evaluate ethanol in diesel fuel and its main alternatives. The fuels used were an ultra low sulfur diesel fuel containing 15% by volume gas-to-liquid (GTL), JP-5 and JP-8 fuels produced in Greece and biodiesel produced from animal fats. The fuels were tested for compliance to the respective specifications at the Fuels Laboratory of the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA). The test fuel matrix consisted of blends of 5-15 % by volume ethanol with diesel, JP-5, JP-8 and with mixtures of the above with 5% by volume biodiesel. The test fuels were used in a stationary single-cylinder diesel engine with indirect injection, in order to evaluate their performance and emissions under various loads.
Korres, D. M., Painesaki, Arg., Karonis, D., Lois, E., Kalligeros, S.
Technical Paper
The Fire Tests with High-Pressure Hydrogen Gas Cylinders for Evaluating the Safety of Fuel-Cell Vehicles2004-01-101303/08/2004
The high-pressure hydrogen gas cylinder of a fuel-cell vehicle is equipped with a pressure relief device (PRD) to prevent the rupture of the cylinder due to heating by fire. Flame exposure tests (bonfire tests) are conducted to evaluate the safety of the cylinder with the PRD, specifically, cylinder resistance to fire and performance of the PRD. In this study, however, fire tests of vehicles equipped with high-pressure cylinders were not required for this test method. We implemented released-hydrogen flame tests by performing bonfire tests and fire tests on vehicles equipped with hydrogen-filled high-pressure gas cylinders (20,35MPa) to examine safety measures for fuel-cell vehicles. We then investigated the following: the characteristics of the released-hydrogen flame, radiation heat flux from the jet flame, combustion noise, the rate of pressure rise in the cylinder, the venting direction of the PRD, and behavior of fire in conjunction with a gasoline flame. The results demonstrate
Tamura, Yohsuke, Suzuki, Jinji, Watanabe, Shogo
Technical Paper
Research Approach for Aging and Evaluating Diesel Lean-NOx Catalysts2001-01-362009/24/2001
The goal of the Diesel Emissions Control-Sulfur Effects (DECSE) program was to determine the impact of diesel fuel sulfur levels on emissions control devices that could lower emissions of oxides of nitrogen (NOX) and particulate matter (PM) from on-highway trucks and buses. West Virginia University (WVU) performed evaluations of lean-NOx catalysts to determine the effects of fuel sulfur content on emissions reduction efficiency and catalyst durability in the first 250 hours of operation. A Cummins ISM370 engine (10.8 liter, 370 horsepower), typical of heavy -duty truck applications, was utilized to evaluate high-temperature lean-NOX catalyst while a Navistar T444E (7.3 liter, 210 horsepower), typical of medium-duty applications, was used to evaluate low-temperature catalyst. Catalysts were evaluated periodically during the first 250 hours of exposure to exhaust from engines operated on 3ppm, 30ppm, 150ppm and 350ppm sulfur content diesel fuel. Lean-NOX catalysts require the injection
Wayne, W. Scott, Snyder, Jason M., Clark, Nigel, Gautam, Mridul, Lyons, Donald W., Ren, Shouxian, Storey, John, Clark, Wendy
Technical Paper
Liquefied Natural Gas for Trucks and Buses2000-01-221006/19/2000
Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is being developed as a heavy vehicle fuel. The reason for developing LNG is to reduce our dependency on imported oil by eliminating technical and costs barriers associated with its usage. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has a program, currently in its third year, to develop and advance cost effective technologies for operating and refueling natural gas–fueled heavy vehicles (Class 7-8 trucks). The objectives of the DOE Natural Gas Vehicle Systems Program are to achieve market penetration by reducing vehicle conversion and fuel costs, to increase consumer acceptance by improving the reliability and efficiency, and to improve air quality by reducing tailpipe emissions. One way to reduce fuel costs is to develop new supplies of cheap natural gas. Significant progress is being made towards developing more energy-efficient, low-cost, small-scale natural gas liquefiers for exploiting alternative sources of natural gas such as from landfill and remote gas
Wegrzyn, James, Gurevich, Michael
Technical Paper
On-Site Natural Gas Liquefaction Process1999-01-290208/17/1999
The fact remains that alternative fuels can greatly benefit our environment and national security, countries all over the world are realizing this and converting their vehicles to run on alternative fuels. Natural Gas has clearly risen to the forefront of the alternative fuels industry. More than 50% of all alternative fuel programs in the world today are dry-gas (natural gas & propane). The most common form of natural gas as a transportation fuel has been Compressed natural gas (CNG), and the big three U.S. auto manufacturers, GM, Ford and Chrysler, are currently producing vehicles that run on natural gas. CNG provides limited range between fill-ups and the containment vessels are large and heavy when compared with equal amounts of energy stored by petroleum fuels, which hinders natural gas as a viable transportation fuel in relation to other petroleum fuels. Based on this known fact, there has been renewed interest in redesigning transportation fuel storage systems which can still
Tate, Raymond E.
Technical Paper
Thermodynamic Analysis of a System with Open-Cycle Gas Turbine for Combined Refrigeration and Heating Purposes1999-01-271708/02/1999
The aim of this paper is to consider a combined system consisting of a gas turbine driving the compressor of a vapour compression refrigerating cycle with a non-azeotropic mixture to reduce irreversibilities in the evaporator and in the condenser; the exhaust gas energy is utilized in the generator of an absorption cycle with combination of H2O-LiBr; in addition, the energy released from the absorber and condenser of both cycles is recovered in the form of hot water to be used for different applications. From the point of view of thermodynamics the system considered in the paper has one exergy inlet and two useful exergy outlets, one at temperatures above that of the environment and the other under that of the environment. By the thermodynamic analysis of this paper, the entropy productions and exergy destructions of the several phases are put in evidence for a proper comparison.
Bisio, G., Pisoni, C.
Technical Paper
Application of the New City-Suburban Heavy Vehicle Route (CSHVR) to Truck Emissions Characterization1999-01-146705/03/1999
Speed-time and video data were logged for tractor-trailers performing local deliveries in Akron, OH. and Richmond, VA. in order to develop an emissions test schedule that represented real truck use. The data bank developed using these logging techniques was used to create a Yard cycle, a Freeway cycle and a City-Suburban cycle by the concatenation of microtrips. The City-Suburban driving cycle was converted to a driving route, in which the truck under test would perform at maximum acceleration during certain portions of the test schedule. This new route was used to characterize the emissions of a 1982 Ford tractor with a Cummins 14 liter, 350 hp engine and a 1998 International tractor with a Cummins 14 liter, 435 hp engine. Emissions levels were found to be repeatable with one driver and the driver-to-driver variation of NOx was under 4%, although the driver-to-driver variations of CO and PM were higher. Emissions levels of NOx for the Ford tractor at a test weight of 46,400 lb. using
Clark, Nigel N., Daley, James J., Nine, Ralph D., Atkinson, Christopher M.
Technical Paper
Natural Gas as a Fuel Option for Heavy Vehicles1999-01-224804/27/1999
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Office of Heavy Vehicle Technologies (OHVT) is promoting the use of natural gas as a fuel option in the transportation energy sector through its natural gas vehicle program [1]. The goal of this program is to eliminate the technical and cost barriers associated with displacing imported petroleum. This is achieved by supporting research and development in technologies that reduce manufacturing costs, reduce emissions, and improve vehicle performance and consumer acceptance for natural gas fueled vehicles. In collaboration with Brookhaven National Laboratory, projects are currently being pursued in (1) liquefied natural gas production from unconventional sources, (2) onboard natural gas storage (adsorbent, compressed, and liquefied), (3) natural gas delivery systems for both onboard the vehicle and the refueling station, and (4) regional and enduse strategies. This paper will provide an overview of these projects highlighting their achievements and
Gurevich, Michael, Wegrzyn, James E., Litzke, Wai Lin
Technical Paper
Effect of Intake Air Temperature and Pilot Fuel Quantity on the Combustion Characteristics of a LPG Diesel Dual Fuel Engine98245510/19/1998
Pilot fuel quantity and intake temperature are two important parameters controlling the combustion process in dual fuel engines. Experiments were conducted on a LPG diesel dual fuel engine at various intake temperatures and pilot quantities. Ignition delay, rate of pressure rise, combustion duration and heat release patterns have been presented at low and high loads. An increase in the concentration of the gaseous primary fuel significantly increased the ignition delay. At high outputs the combustion of the gas by flame propagation which follows the ignition process of the pilot and the entrained gas was the dominant feature. However, at low loads combustion of the pilot fuel and the gas entrained in it were only significant.. The rapid combustion of the gaseous fuel at high output conditions, particularly when the intake temperature was high, resulted in rough engine operation.
Poonia, M. P., Ramesh, A., Gaur, R. R.
Technical Paper
DOE/BNL Liquid Natural Gas Heavy Vehicle Program98191908/11/1998
As a means of lowering greenhouse gas emissions, increasing economic growth, and reducing the dependency on imported oil, the Department of Energy and Brookhaven National Laboratory (DOE/BNL) is promoting the substitution of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in heavy-vehicles that are currently being fueled by diesel. Heavy vehicles are defined as Class 7 & 8 trucks (> 118,000 pounds GVW), and transit buses that have a fuel usage greater than 10,000 gallons per year and driving range of more than 300 miles. The key in making LNG market-competitive with all types of diesel fuels is in improving energy efficiency and reducing costs of LNG technologies through systems integration. This paper integrates together the three LNG technologies of: (1) production from landfills and remote well sites; (2) cryogenic fuel delivery systems; and (3) state-of-the-art storage tank and refueling facilities, with market end-use strategies. The program's goal is to develop these technologies and strategies
Wegrzyn, James E., Litzke, Wai-Lin, Gurevich, Michael
Technical Paper
Study of Natural Gas Fueling of Locomotive Engines98139605/04/1998
In this paper recent development activity for natural gas combustion systems for locomotive engines are discussed. The pollutant emissions of locomotive engines using natural gas are compared with those using diesel fuel. Based on the analysis of combustion characteristics of gaseous engines, some measures for reducing emissions and improving engine performance at light engine loads are suggested. In addition, issues in developing a natural gas locomotive engine, such as gaseous fuel cost, conversion benefit, safety and gas storage facility, are reviewed.
Xin, Zhang, Jianhua, Liu, Qiong, Wang, Zhuiqin, Hu
Technical Paper
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