Optimization of low carbon fuels operation on a CI engine under a simplified driving cycle for transportation de-fossilization

The study of internal combustion engines, and their associated energy conversion processes, is currently focused on targeting the reduction of pollutant emissions while maintaining or improving efficiency and fuel consumption. The research of alternative fuels, in particular low carbon fuels (LCF), seems to be a promising strategy for solving this problem. However, the characterization of a fuel with properties different than those of diesel requires numerous tests and resources to prove the viability of the substitution for another alternative. In Europe, for a vehicle to be homologated the World harmonized Light vehicles Test Cycle (WLTC) must be complied with. This cycle requires transient tests, that performed with a fuel for which an engine calibration is not yet existent would be difficult and could hinder the evaluation of the potential of a given fuel. This study proposes a cycle simplification methodology that seeks to reduce the driving cycle to a discrete set of stationary conditions, for which each operational calibration can be optimized. The optimization methodology is based on statistical analysis and modelling, and is presented to select the most desirable operating condition that can be reached using an LCF. For each testing point optimization NOx, soot, brake efficiency and fuel consumption are used as targets. Finally, the calibrated operating conditions are applied within the simplified cycle to assess the homologation potential of the studied fuel, as well as the equivalent CO2 emissions under the criteria of a well-towheel analysis (WTW).

Automated summary

The current focus of internal combustion engine research is on reducing pollutant emissions while maintaining or improving efficiency and fuel consumption. Studying low carbon fuels (LCF) as an alternative seems promising, but testing a fuel with different properties requires significant resources. To address this issue, a cycle simplification methodology is proposed in this study to evaluate the homologation potential of the studied fuel.