A comparative investigation of the operating performance and emission characteristics of various diesel engines driving the firefighting pump

Abstract

The investigation of engines with different performances driving the same load-consuming device is necessary for practical applications. In this paper, three diesel engines with varying capacities for driving the same firefighting pump for high-rise residential buildings were studied and compared for their performance, combustion parameters, and emissions by the simulation method. The AVL BOOST software is utilized to establish theoretical combustion models for these engines. The operating balance point of each engine is determined, and the appropriate transmission ratio of the drive train system is proposed to be applied. The results show that the working partial load modes of Model 1 at 91 % engine load and 2970 rpm, Model 2 at 74 % engine load and 2960 rpm, and Model 3 at 57 % engine load and 2490 rpm. The engine works in its higher load mode, producing higher brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC), higher NOx and CO emissions, lower soot formation, and vice versa. The engine operates at its lower load, resulting in decreased BSFC, less NOx and CO emissions, and more soot generation. The results suggest that Model 2 in the present work is the option that can balance the factors of engine power, initial investment cost, fuel consumption economics, and emissions. The findings obtained from this work are the scientific foundations to support the design of the firefighting pump systems when considering comprehensive factors of technical technology, investment cost, and environmental consideration.