Optimization of Operating Parameters of Diesel Engine Powered with Jatropha Oil Diesel Blend by Employing Response Surface Methodology

Abstract

Biodiesel is promoted as an appropriate alternative fuel for use in compression ignition (CI) engines as it is non-toxic, biodegradable, and sulphur-free and does not require any change in current engines design. The key objective of this experimental study is to evaluate the best operational parameters of engine referring to performance and emissions of Jatropha biodiesel powered CI engine by employing response surface methodology (RSM). In order to achieve maximum brake power (BP), brake thermal efficiency (BTE) and to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) and unburnt hydrocarbon (HC) emissions the optimization model is used. Effects of different factors such as fuel injection pressure (FIP), engine compression ratio (CR), and load on thermal performance have been studied in a single cylinder diesel engine. Experiments design was based on L20 orthogonal array Central composite design (CCD) method. RSM was employed to test the suitability of biodiesel in diesel engines and models were developed by using experimental results. Based on the optimization, the optimum engine parameters found were 18 CR, 180 bar FIP and 8.11 kg engine load. Under these settings, the optimum responses were found as 2.21 kW, 28.24%, 25.3 ppm and 174.6 ppm for BP, BTE, HC, and NOx, respectively. Meanwhile, R 2 (coefficient of determination) values were found as 99.96%, 99.93%, 98.5%, 99.14%, and 99.78%, for BP, BTE, net heat release rate (NHRR), HC, and NOx, respectively.