Experimental and Skeletal Kinetic Model Study of Compressed Natural Gas Fueled Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition Engine

Problem statement: In homogeneous charge compression ignition engines fuel oxidation chemistry determines the auto-ignition timing, heat release, reaction intermediates and the ultimate products of combustion. To shorten development time and to understand combustion processes, the use of simulation is increasing. Approach: A model that correctly simulates fuel oxidation at these conditions would be a useful design tool. Detailed models of hydrocarbon fuel oxidation, consisting of hundreds of chemical species and thousands of reactions. A way to lessen the burden was to use a skeletal reaction model, containing only tens of species and reactions. Results: The model was developed from the existing pre-ignition model, which had 10 species, 5 elementary reactions for kinetic and 6 elementary reactions for equilibrium and the standard k-ε turbulence model had been used in this investigation. This model combines the chemistry of the low, intermediate and high temperature regions. Conclusion: Simulations are compared with measured and calculated data from the engine operating at the following conditions: speed 1500 RPM, inlet temperature 363-433 K, fuel CNG and λ range 3-5. The simulations are generally in good agreement with the experimental data including temperature, pressure, combustion duration and ignition delay and heat release.