Multiple Optimizations of Engine Parameters of Single-Cylinder Four-Stroke Direct Injection Diesel Engine Operated on Dual Fuel Mode Using Biodiesel-Treated and Untreated Biogas Combination

Abstract

In this present work, an experimental investigation was conducted to study the combustion characteristics of a single-cylinder four-stroke water-cooled diesel engine operated on dual fuel mode using Honge oil methyl ester (HOME) and treated/untreated biogas (TBG and UTBG). Engine operation is carried out with varied injection timing, injector opening pressure, and compression ratio, and its influence on the performance, emissions, and combustion characteristics are studied and compared to that of conventional pilot fuel and biogas operation. The treated and untreated biogas composed of 92% and 70% methane, respectively. Biogas is a primary fuel which is well mixed with air using suitable carburetor in the inlet manifold, whereas the pilot fuel (diesel/HOME) is directly injected into the combustion chamber. Experimental investigation showed that with an optimized parameters thermal efficiency for HOME-based operation with TBG resulted in 4.3% decreased thermal efficiency and as far as emission levels are concerned, smoke, CO, and HC levels were increased by 19.4%, 21.2% and 14.5%, respectively, compared to diesel-based dual fuel operation at 80% load. Increased delay period and reduced in-cylinder pressure and heat release rate were observed for HOME-based dual fuel operation. Further, about 79 and 72% fuel saving was achieved for diesel and HOME-based dual fuel operations with TBG at the 80% load. It is also noticed that HOME-biogas combination resulted in smooth engine operation. Hence, their extensive utilization for power generation applications will substitute the way for country energy security.