Optimizing diesel engine parameters for low emissions using Taguchi method: variation risk analysis approach—Part I

An experimental study has been carried out to simultaneously optimize several diesel engine designs and operating parameters for low exhaust emissions using Taguchi method. A single cylinder (DPF make) diesel engine equipped with a high pressure, cam driven mechanical injector has been used in this experiment. The effects of changes in engine design/operating parameters–nozzle spray holes, piston–to–head clearance, nozzle protrusion, injection control pressure, start of injection timing and swirl level on diesel engine emissions have been investigated at two engine operating conditions, i.e., 40% of maximum load and 80% of maximum load using Taguchi design of experiment methods. Emissions are quantified and optimum parameter setting has been arrived. Measurement of exhaust emissions for the optimized engine showed that CO, HC and smoke emissions are significantly lower than those obtained for the baseline engine. Taguchi method has been found to be a useful technique for the simultaneous optimization of several engine parameters and also for predicting the effect of various design parameters on diesel exhaust emissions.