Influence of steam induction on the performance and hydrogen knock limit of a hydrogen-gasoline spark ignition engine

Abstract

This study examines the effect of steam induction on the performance and hydrogen knock limit of a hydrogen-gasoline dual-fuel Spark Ignition (SI) engine. The experimental setup includes gasoline direct injection, along with steam and hydrogen port induction. Steam-to-fuel ratios of 7.5 %, 15 %, and 22.5 % were used, and hydrogen was introduced in step sizes of 2 LPM until knock onset. The extension of the hydrogen knock limit was achieved through steam induction and retarding spark timing. Under the default configuration, the maximum achievable hydrogen flow rate was 8 LPM, which increased to 20 LPM with retarded spark timing and 22.5 % steam proportion. Steam induction initially increased and then decreased brake thermal efficiency, brake mean effective pressure, in-cylinder pressure, and heat release rate. In contrast, advancing spark timing and hydrogen enrichment consistently improved performance and combustion characteristics. Cyclic variation showed a decreasing trend with the introduction of steam and hydrogen. Unlike hydrogen enrichment, steam addition reduced CO and NOX emissions.