Optimization of methanol/diesel dual-fuel engines at low load condition for heavy-duty vehicles to operated at high substitution ratio by using single-hole injector for direct injection of methanol

Abstract

Methanol, as a low-carbon and easily synthesizable fuel, is one of the promising directions for future internal combustion engine (ICE) fuels. However, methanol/diesel engines with high energy substitution ratios exhibit a significant drawback at low loads, namely poor fuel economy, which seriously hinders the development of dual fuel engines. Therefore, this paper conducts an optimization study on the combustion strategy of methanol/diesel in heavy-duty vehicle engines under high energy substitution ratios (70 %) and low loads. Innovatively combines single-hole injection with the direct dual fuel stratification (DDFS) technology. By coupling the longer injection duration of a single hole with higher injection pressure, and tailored combustion strategy adjustments, successfully achieving the goal of optimizing low-load methanol dual fuel engines. The research results indicate that when employing a methanol single-stage injection strategy, setting the start of diesel injection (SODI) of −25°CA after top dead center (ATDC) effectively enhances the combustion efficiency of methanol/diesel, especially when combined with a strategy that the start methanol injection (SOMI) is of −23°CA ATDC. This combination can boost the gross indicated thermal efficiency (ITEg) to 51.95 %. The research on utilizing a methanol two-stage injection strategy found that increasing the methanol premixing appropriately, within the engine's safe range, can effectively enhance ITEg. Specifically, with the methanol pre-injection ratio (MPR) of 10 % and the methanol two-stage injection interval (MII) of 20°CA, ITEg can be improved to 52.07 %. However, excessively of premixing can lead to premature combustion, causing an increase in negative work during the compression stroke and consequently reducing ITEg. This study has unveiled effective solutions for the application of methanol/diesel DDFS technology in the automotive engine field. It offers insights into the selection and optimization of methanol injectors and provides theoretical support and practical references for achieving clean and efficient combustion in engines.