Application to micro-cogeneration of an innovative dual fuel compression ignition engine running on biogas

Renewable sources and enhancement of energy conversion efficiency are the main paths chosen by European Community to stop climate changes environmental degradation, enable a sustainable growth. For this purpose, construction new more dynamic electricity distribution network is mandatory. This “smart grid” should also include small medium-size companies, able program generation use from renewable (the so-called "prosumers"). In frame, micro-cogeneration (rated electric power up 50 kW) one most promising techniques. work, application an innovative Compression Ignition internal combustion engine, operated in Dual Fuel mode proposed. Thanks specific system (Reactivity Controlled Ignition, RCCI: lean homogenous mixture air biomethane or biogas ignited injection amount Diesel fuel), brake thermal can be increased at all operating conditions, compared conventional Spark engine running on biogas. The ensuing reduction CO2 emissions higher than 20%. Furthermore, proposed tolerate larger variations composition biogas, without significant drop efficiency. Finally, case emergency, it run fuel only. particularly suitable for company agricultural field, such as mid-size farm, that produce its self-consumption. Therefore, representative study selected, corresponding electrical needs analysed throughout typical year. energetic analysis leads identification size calibration settings, order reduce purchase natural gas, maximizing company's own (biogas biomethane). final goal optimization process create virtuous system, impact make almost independent point view.