Optimizing compression ignition engine performance and emissions with onboard oxygen concentrator: an experimental study.

In the current era, it has become essential to move toward highly efficient and low-emission engines as the norms for automobile emissions are very stringent and closely monitored; moreover, it also tends to be more strictly regulated in the future. The aim of this experimental work is to optimize engine efficiency as well as reduce emissions to the maximum using oxygen-enriched air. An onboard oxygen generator can provide oxygen-enriched air instead of an oxygen cylinder, as the latter one is prone to cause safety issues. In this experimental study, oxygen is obtained through generator and is sent to the engine's intake manifold, where the atmospheric air merges with it. The parameters of combustion, performance, and emission of this oxygen-enriched air were examined in a constant-speed compression ignition engine. The result shows that the engine's brake thermal efficiency increased by 5.4% at 25% of brake power as compared to the thermal efficiency attained in atmospheric air combustion. Similarly, brake-specific fuel consumption also decreased in the oxygen-enriched combustion process. The emissions of hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide also decreased to 18.8% and 33.3%, respectively, for 25% of the brake power; notably, the smoke emissions reduced drastically to 32% at the same brake power. The oxides of nitrogen emission, however, increased with the air's oxygen content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]