Engine Concept for Operating on Fuel Gas - Sisu Diesel 420 DWRIE

Abstract

Alternative fuels for internal combustion engines, such as fuel gases, are a transition solution that could be beneficial in reducing current engine emissions before the electric vehicle becomes widespread. This thesis aimed to define the engine concept for converting an existing diesel engine (Sisudiesel 420 DWRIE) in the Novia University of Applied Science (Vaasa, Finland) laboratory, to a dedicated fuel gas engine, which will be used for academic and research purposes.

The thesis reviewed a range of available fuel gases and explored the possibilities for converting the diesel engine to operate on the selected fuel gas, defining a feasible engine concept. The resulting engine was simulated with GT-Power software to check its operation and performance.

As a result, it was found that Compressed Natural Gas was the most appropriate fuel for being implemented, according to engine conversion feasibility, fuel availability, and storage ease. Regarding the gas engine concept, it was determined to adopt a spark-ignition engine with a Venturi air-gas mixer and a reduced compression ratio compared to the original engine. The simulation results showed a consistent engine although there was a decrease in performance compared to the diesel engine. The findings of the thesis can provide a basis for future research in terms of engine optimization and engine concept physical implementation.