Study of Low-Temperature-Combustion Diesel Engines

Fuel cells have been recognized as a feasible alternative to current IC engines. A significant technical problem yet to be resolved is the on bound fuel supply before fuel cells can be practically used for vehicles. Use of an on-board fuel reformer can mitigate the fuel supply issue. In particular, using a diesel engine as on-board fuel reformer, combined with a fuel cell, is a strong candidate for the next generation power plant for vehicles. This study investigates feasibility of using a diesel engine as a fuel reformer. To supply the hydrogen and carbon monoxide for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC), a primary Low-Temperature-Combustion (LTC) technology diesel engine using will burn fuel-rich mixture to provide the high temperature combustion products necessary for SOFC. This study models the ignition properties of the fuel-rich mixture, and then applies the model to estimate operation map of a LTC diesel engine. This research provides useful design for the combined cycle prove plant. Thesis Supervisor: Wai K. Cheng Title: Professor of Mechanical Engineering