Performance of multi-cylinder diesel engine fueled with mahua biodiesel using Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technique

Abstract

ABSTRACTIndia is mainly an agricultural country. For irrigation, the farmers are primarily dependent on diesel engines which run on immaculate diesel. In order to reduce the consumption of diesel, oxygenated fuel additives seem to be a good proposition. In this connection, biodiesel is one of the best choices and this study is an attempt in that direction. Of the various non-edible vegetable oils available for making biodiesel, Mahua oil (Madhuca Indica) is preferred since it is widely available across the country. The problem with biodiesel is the higher emission of oxides of nitrogen (NOx). NOx emissions can be controlled with Ad-Blue (Urea) solution. Fortunately, for the irrigation sector, it may be considered as a blessing in disguise since, Urea which is used to control the NOx emissions is used as a fertilizer. In this work an experimental study has been carried out to assess the suitability of selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technique in reducing NOx. To arrive at accurate results, property characterization has been carried out for various blends. Tests were conducted on a multi-cylinder water cooled diesel engine at 2400 rpm. For loading an eddy current dynamometer was used. The injection nozzle opening pressure (NOP) was set to 220 bar with constant static injection timing (SIT) of 18° before top dead center (bTDC). This study presents the results at full load, employing SCR technique. The results were compared with conventional engine results under same operating condition where no reduction technique was employed. It was found that there was a significant reduction in NOx (around 3.91%) when the engine was operated with 25% biodiesel, thereby saving 25% diesel. This study establishes that SCR technique with 25% biodiesel addition as a viable option without any modification in the engine and without any compromise on the engine performance. Therefore, this option can be considered as sustainable one in agricultural operation.