Biofuel Engine Laboratory – LMB/UNICAMP
Main researcher: Prof. Dr. JanitoVaqueiro Ferreira – DMC/FEM/UNICAMP
Objectives
The objective of this proposal is to explore innovative mechanical solutions that provide an increased thermal efficiency of the engine, reduced fuel consumption, reduced friction between components, while reducing pollutant emissions with no loss of performance. The study initially focuses on mechanical solutions that enable an engine to operate with variable compression ratio and variable displacement. Kinematic and dynamic analysis for the mechanism is being made, and thermodynamic simulation models are under development in close connection with sub-theme 4. These simulations will be validated through experimental tests. A prototype engine will be used for these tests, looking for the best combinations of compression ratio and operational condition of load and speed with the dynamometer bench of IMT. With these models developed and validated, it is intended to analyze the effect of a lean air/fuel mixture and water injection directly into the combustion chamber. Finally, with the new mechanical configuration tested, the electronic control system for the actuator on the variable compression ratio and cylinder displacement will be developed.
Expected results
a) Study of mechanical models for simultaneous variation in the compression ratio and cylinder displacement, and develop a “cold” prototype of an engine with this innovative device.
b) Experimental evaluation of the base engine to validate the simulation of an engine with the same features (integration with IMT).
c) Experimental determination of the knocking limits for ethanol, as a function of load, engine speed and compression ratio. Evaluate the effects on efficiency and consumption (integration with IMT).
d) Develop a simulation model to predict the performance of this engine after its experimental validation, now working with a lean air/fuel mixture and simultaneous water injection directly into the combustion chamber. Effects to evaluate: start and endpoint of water injection, engine temperature, pressures and temperatures inside the cylinder, engine load and speed.
e) Simulation of performance of this engine now working with the simultaneous variation of compression ratio and cylinder displacement. Effects to evaluate: pressures and temperatures inside the cylinder, engine speed and load.
f) Hardware in the Loop (real time control) for the simulated engine, with servo motors that will operate the device responsible for the variation in the compression ratio and cylinder displacement.
g) Define suggestions for modifications in engines based on the obtained results.