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Internal Combustion Engine Performance 2023

A special issue of Energies (ISSN 1996-1073). This special issue belongs to the section "I2: Energy and Combustion Science".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 March 2024) | Viewed by 6217

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Mechanical Engineering Educators, School of Pedagogical and Technological Education (ASPETE), 14121 Heraklion, Greece
Interests: I.C. engine performance modelling; I.C. engine pollutant emissions; I.C. engine heat transfer; I.C. engine exhaust heat recuperation
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Guest Editor
American Bureau of Shipping Hellenic Single Member Limited Liability Company, Houston, TX 77389, USA
Interests: I.C. engine performance modeling; I.C. engine gas exchange systems; I.C. engine second law analyses
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

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Guest Editor
Thermodynamics and Internal Combustion Engines, Propulsion and Thermal Systems Laboratory, Aeronautical Sciences Department, Hellenic Air Force Academy, Acharnes Attikis, 13671 Tatoi, Greece
Interests: I.C. engine performance modeling; I.C. engine gas exchange systems; applicaton of alternative fuels and new combustion systems in I.C. engines
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The internal combustion (IC) engine is one of the most important and successful technological developments of the last century. Its application throughout over the years to today has influenced almost every aspect of human life, used either as the prime mover in land, sea, and air transportation, as the source of electrical power production, or as an emergency safety installation in hospitals or in factories.

The main reasons for this enormous distribution and success are the high energy density of liquid hydrocarbon fuels combined with the ability of the IC engine to efficiently cover the whole area of energy demand from a fraction of a W up to several dozen MW.

The world energy crisis and the environmental impact have played a major role in the development of the internal combustion engine during the last few decades. At this time, it has become obvious that a closer understanding of the thermodynamic processes occurring within the engine is necessary. As a result, research on IC engines has expanded enormously, both on simulation and experimental bases. Today, the main objectives are the improvement of engine performance, the minimization of fuel consumption/CO2 emissions, and the reduction of the level of exhaust pollutants. To this end, various alternative combustion techniques have been developed or are in development (e.g., direct injection SI engines, HCCI operation), while various internal and after-treatment exhaust measures are also being examined.

The present Special Issue of Energies aims to gather innovative research and include some of the latest developments in internal combustion engines. More specifically, topics of interest for the Special Issue include (but are not limited to):

  • Combustion mechanisms in spark and compression ignition engines;
  • Fuel injection and spray formation;
  • Pollutant formation (particulate matter, NOx, CO, HC, noise);
  • Exhaust after-treatment systems (three-way catalysts, oxidation catalysts, diesel and gasoline particulate filters, SCR, NOx adsorbers);
  • Internal measures for emission control (EGR, water injection, etc.);
  • Exhaust heat recuperation systems (Rankine cycle, turbocompound, etc.);
  • Engine downsizing;
  • Effects on engine structure and design due to increased performance demands;
  • Special problems associated with large-scale two-stroke engine performance and emission reduction;
  • Alternative fuel and biofuel effects on engine performance and emissions (ethanol, butanol, biodiesel, etc.);
  • Recent advances in internal combustion engine experimentation;
  • Novel combustion systems (HCCI, PCCI and RCCI).

Dr. Georgios Mavropoulos
Dr. E.C. Andritsakis
Dr. Roussos G. Papagiannakis
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Energies is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Related Special Issue

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

13 pages, 3342 KiB  
Article
Combustion Characteristics of a Hydrogen-Fueled TJI Engine under Knocking Conditions
by Ireneusz Pielecha and Filip Szwajca
Energies 2024, 17(6), 1324; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17061324 - 10 Mar 2024
Viewed by 550
Abstract
The use of a two-stage combustion system in a hydrogen-fueled engine is characteristic of modern internal combustion engines. The main problem with hydrogen combustion in such systems is knocking combustion. This paper contains the results of research under knock combustion conditions with a [...] Read more.
The use of a two-stage combustion system in a hydrogen-fueled engine is characteristic of modern internal combustion engines. The main problem with hydrogen combustion in such systems is knocking combustion. This paper contains the results of research under knock combustion conditions with a single-cylinder internal combustion engine equipped with a turbulent jet ignition system (TJI). A layout with a passive pre-chamber and a variable value of the excess air ratio range λ = 1.25–2.0 with a constant value of the center of combustion (CoC = 4 deg) after top dead center (TDC) was used. Two indicators of knock combustion were analyzed: maximum oscillation of pressure and the Mahle Knock Index. Analyses were also carried out taking into account the rate of heat release and the amount of heat released. As a result of the investigation, it was found that knock combustion occurs intensively at small values of the air excess ratio. Hydrogen knock combustion disappears for λ = 2.0 and greater. The pressure oscillation index was found to be more applicable, as its limiting value (>1 bar) allows easy diagnosis of knock combustion. The Mahle Knock Index is a quantity that allows interval analysis of the knock. The choice of classes and weighting coefficients requires an iterative operation, as they strictly depend on engine characteristics, load, and knock magnitude. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internal Combustion Engine Performance 2023)
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20 pages, 1829 KiB  
Article
Feasibility and Performance Analysis of Cylinder Deactivation for a Heavy-Duty Compressed Natural Gas Engine
by Daniela Anna Misul, Alex Scopelliti, Dario Di Maio, Pierpaolo Napolitano and Carlo Beatrice
Energies 2024, 17(3), 627; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17030627 - 28 Jan 2024
Viewed by 602
Abstract
The rising interest in the use of gaseous fuels, such as bio-methane and hydro-methane, in Heavy-Duty (HD) engines to reduce Greenhouse Gases pushed by the net-zero CO2 emissions roadmap, introduced the need for appropriate strategies in terms of fuel economy and emissions [...] Read more.
The rising interest in the use of gaseous fuels, such as bio-methane and hydro-methane, in Heavy-Duty (HD) engines to reduce Greenhouse Gases pushed by the net-zero CO2 emissions roadmap, introduced the need for appropriate strategies in terms of fuel economy and emissions reduction. The present work hence aims at analysing the potential benefits derived from the application of the cylinder deactivation strategy on a six-cylinder HD Natural Gas Spark Ignition (SI) engine, typically employed in buses and trucks. The activity stems from an extensive experimental characterisation of the engine, which allowed for validating a related 1D model at several Steady-State conditions over the entire engine workplan and during dynamic phases, represented by the World Harmonized Transient Cycle (WHTC) homologation cycle. The validated model was exploited to assess the feasibility of the considered strategy, with specific attention to the engine working areas at partial load and monitoring the main performance parameters. Moreover, the introduction in the model of an additional pipeline and of valves actuated by a dedicated control logic, allowed for embedding the capability of using Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR). In the identified operating zones, the EGR strategy has shown significant benefits in terms of fuel consumption, with a reduction of up to 10%. Simultaneously, an appreciable increase in the exhaust gas temperature was detected, which may eventually contribute to enhance the Three-Way Catalyst (TWC) conversion efficiency. Considering that few efforts are to be found in the literature but for the application of the cylinder deactivation strategy to Light-Duty or conventionally fuelled vehicles, the present work lays the foundation for a possible application of such technology in Natural Gas Heavy-Duty engines, providing important insights to maximise the efficiency of the entire system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internal Combustion Engine Performance 2023)
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17 pages, 3409 KiB  
Article
LPG, Gasoline, and Diesel Engines for Small Marine Vessels: A Comparative Analysis of Eco-Friendliness and Economic Feasibility
by Jeong Kuk Kim, Siljung Yeo, Jae-Hyuk Choi and Won-Ju Lee
Energies 2024, 17(2), 450; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17020450 - 17 Jan 2024
Viewed by 738
Abstract
As an escalating global concern for environmentally sustainable marine fuels, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is attracting attention as an eco-friendly and economical alternative. This study explored LPG utilization in small marine vessels, focusing on its eco-friendliness and economic feasibility. To assess its environmental [...] Read more.
As an escalating global concern for environmentally sustainable marine fuels, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is attracting attention as an eco-friendly and economical alternative. This study explored LPG utilization in small marine vessels, focusing on its eco-friendliness and economic feasibility. To assess its environmental implications, the AVL FIRE simulation program was used to compare CO2, CO, NO, and soot emissions from LPG engines with those from conventional gasoline and diesel engines. The LPG engine model relied on data from a pioneering type-approved experimental LPG engine designed for small South Korean marine vessels, while parameters for gasoline and diesel engines were adjusted to suit their distinctive features. Regarding long-term economic feasibility, assuming a 30-year ship lifespan, incorporating 2022 annual average prices, average annual price growth rates, and annual fuel consumption data of each fuel, results indicate that LPG engines exhibited lower CO2, CO, NO, and soot emissions than conventional engines, except that NO emissions were higher than gasoline engines. Evaluating LPG’s economic feasibility over a 30-year ship life cycle for an individual vessel revealed varying fuel cost savings, with the greatest savings observed in gasoline–other (KRW 2220.7 million) and the least in gasoline–coastal (KRW 1152.5 million). These findings offer vital insights for ship operators and policymakers seeking a balance between eco-friendliness and cost-effectiveness, as well as LPG engine technology emerging as pivotal for a sustainable future, harmonizing environmental protection and economic viability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internal Combustion Engine Performance 2023)
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19 pages, 4141 KiB  
Article
Arrhenius Equation for Calculating Viscosity in Assessing the Dilution Level of Lubricating Oil with Diesel Oil—A Case Study of SAE 30 and SAE 40 Grade Marine Lubricating Oils
by Leszek Chybowski, Marcin Szczepanek and Katarzyna Gawdzińska
Energies 2024, 17(2), 444; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17020444 - 16 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 655
Abstract
This article proposes using the Arrhenius model for estimating the viscosity of a mixture of two liquids in the quantitative assessment of the physicochemical properties of lubricating oils in the context of assessing the level of dilution of lubricating oil with diesel oil. [...] Read more.
This article proposes using the Arrhenius model for estimating the viscosity of a mixture of two liquids in the quantitative assessment of the physicochemical properties of lubricating oils in the context of assessing the level of dilution of lubricating oil with diesel oil. Dynamic are made of mixtures of lubricating oil and diesel oil with known concentrations of 0, 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100% m/m of the diesel oil content in the mixture. Mixtures of the most popular oils (viscosity classes SAE 30 and SAE 40) with diesel oil that meet the requirements of the DMX of the marine distillate fuels category are prepared and tested. Viscosity measurements are performed at 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, and 100 °C temperatures. The Arrhenius model is used to estimate the viscosity of the mixtures with an assumed diesel oil content and to estimate the diesel oil concentration in the mixtures with a known measured viscosity value. In both cases, the absolute estimation error is determined, and the accuracy of the estimation is assessed against the known concentration of diesel oil in the mixture with lubricating oil and the temperature at which the viscosity is measured. The estimated concentrations of diesel oil in mixtures with lubricating oil are useful to assess the condition of the lubricating oil (for concentrations of diesel oil lower than 5% m/m). The method is proposed to be used in practice to support standard laboratory oil analysis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internal Combustion Engine Performance 2023)
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16 pages, 15983 KiB  
Article
A Numerical Investigation of Supersonic Combustion Flow Control by Nanosecond-Pulsed Actuations
by Yilun Yan, Jiangfeng Wang, Jianying Lan and Keyu Li
Energies 2024, 17(1), 201; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17010201 - 29 Dec 2023
Viewed by 457
Abstract
The efficiency of supersonic combustion is largely dependent on inlet and injection parameters. Additional energy input is required in some off-design conditions, and nanosecond discharge actuation can be a solution. In the present study, a phenomenological model of a nanosecond-pulsed surface dielectric barrier [...] Read more.
The efficiency of supersonic combustion is largely dependent on inlet and injection parameters. Additional energy input is required in some off-design conditions, and nanosecond discharge actuation can be a solution. In the present study, a phenomenological model of a nanosecond-pulsed surface dielectric barrier discharge (NS-SDBD) actuator was developed to analyze the combustion enhancement effect for a supersonic combustor with transverse H2 injection. A seven-reaction H2–air combustion model was adopted for the numerical simulation. Dynamic mode decomposition (DMD) was employed to acquire temperature perturbation in spatial and temporal domains. The results show that the actuator provides additional temperature-increment and species transportation through compression waves. The combustion enhancement effect is mainly attributed to the flow perturbation in the shear layer, which promotes the turbulent diffusion of fuel. Given the same power input, the combustion efficiency at the shockwave reflection point is increased by 17.5%, and the flame height is increased by 15.4% at its maximum. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internal Combustion Engine Performance 2023)
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36 pages, 14656 KiB  
Article
LESS Spark Ignition Engine: An Innovative Alternative to the Crankshaft Mechanism
by Vasileios Georgitzikis, Dionisis Pettas, Konstantinos Loukas and Georgios Mavropoulos
Energies 2023, 16(18), 6655; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16186655 - 16 Sep 2023
Viewed by 1431
Abstract
In recent years, the internal combustion engine has been the subject of debate mainly concerning its environmental impact. Despite all the discussion it becomes clear day by day that combustion engines will continue to occupy their dominant role over the following decades, especially [...] Read more.
In recent years, the internal combustion engine has been the subject of debate mainly concerning its environmental impact. Despite all the discussion it becomes clear day by day that combustion engines will continue to occupy their dominant role over the following decades, especially in the mid- and large-size power spectrum ranges and retain a large share of the market in the smaller-size segment of their application. In this context, in the present paper, a novel engine kinematic mechanism is introduced, which converts rotary to reciprocating motion, and aims to become a potential replacement for the traditional crankshaft mechanism of piston engines. Following a description of the fundamental principles of the new design, we detail the main problems with the application of the new design in the first prototype SI engine and the actions and improvements implemented to overcome them. The actual measurement data from basic engine performance parameters are provided and evaluated, leading to conclusions and decisions for further action which should be implemented in the next improvement steps. Overall, the new SI engine, implementing the novel kinematic mechanism, seems to be quite promising especially in hybrid automotive applications, a fact that encourages the implementation of further improvement plans. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internal Combustion Engine Performance 2023)
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24 pages, 7871 KiB  
Article
A One-Dimensional Numerical Model for High-Performance Two-Stroke Engines
by Fernando Ortenzi and Andrea Bossaglia
Energies 2023, 16(13), 4947; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16134947 - 26 Jun 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1009
Abstract
Computer software that simulates the thermodynamic and gas dynamic properties of internal combustion engines can play a significant role in the design and optimization of internal combustion engines. In the present work, a quasi-dimensional numerical model for two-stroke engines is presented. Particular attention [...] Read more.
Computer software that simulates the thermodynamic and gas dynamic properties of internal combustion engines can play a significant role in the design and optimization of internal combustion engines. In the present work, a quasi-dimensional numerical model for two-stroke engines is presented. Particular attention was paid to reporting in-cylinder models, combustion (turbulent with flame development and flame–wall interaction), and turbulence (K-k-ϵ model), with the addition of tumble- and squish-generated turbulence that is quite common in such engines. The aim was to reduce the role of the calibration constants, which are fundamental for correlating the models with the experiments, and relations for calculating the tumble ratio and turbulent scales were reported. A one-dimensional model for manifolds is also presented (solving the Euler equations), using the second-order Roe Riemann solver with some improvements, paying particular attention to the source terms, such as area variation. Additionally, a new approach to the end-pipe boundaries, which would reduce the mass conservation error, is reported. The engines tested were two kart two-stroke engines, used for racing purposes: the IAME X30 engine and the IAME Screamer III KZ engine. A comparison between the model results and the experimental data was made, and good accordance was observed, with a root mean square error of about 0.5 kW and providing good accuracy in evaluating changes, such as the combustion chamber squish area and the exhaust pipe length. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internal Combustion Engine Performance 2023)
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