Numerical Investigation of Engine Performance and Emission Reduction of Diesel and Methane in a Single-Cylinder Dual-Fuel Engine Using Ansys ICE Fluent

Abstract

This study investigates the engine performance and emission characteristics of diesel and methane in a single-cylinder dual-fuel engine using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations through ANSYS ICE Fluent. The research is motivated by the need to explore alternative fuels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels in internal combustion engines. Methane, being a cleaner-burning fuel with lower carbon intensity, presents a promising alternative to diesel in compression-ignition engines. The study aims to compare the combustion flow dynamics, engine performance, and emission characteristics between diesel-air and methane-air mixtures. The methodology involved modelling a 3D sector of the engine cylinder, followed by meshing and simulation of combustion using diesel/air and methane/air mixtures. Key performance metrics such as swirl ratio, tumble ratio, apparent heat release rate (AHRR), and total mass in fluid per injection were analysed. The results revealed that the methane-air mixture demonstrated slightly higher torque and power output compared to diesel-air, without compromising engine performance. Additionally, the methane-air mixture showed potential for reduced emissions, attributed to a more complete and stable combustion process. The findings contribute to advancing the understanding of dual-fuel engine operations and the potential benefits of methane as an alternative fuel. The study provides valuable insights into optimizing engine design and operation, with implications for reducing environmental impacts and improving fuel efficiency in the automotive industry.