Combustion of methyl esters of various origins in the agricultural engine

Abstract

The paper discusses the issues concerning the methyl ester mixtures of various origins in terms of using these mixtures as self-contained biofuels or components of a fuel intended for use in compression-ignition engines used in the means of transport. The selected physical and chemical parameters of the chosen mixtures have been compared to the requirements of the EN 14214 standard specified for the rape oil acid methyl ester (RME). The tests have been carried out at an engine test bed with 1104C-44 PERKINS engine and allowed for determining the influence of methyl esters on the most important parameters characterising the combustion processes as well as the emission of the toxic components of the exhaust gas. The combustion process was assessed on the basis of the experimentally measured pressure in the combustion chamber. Increase in pressure and heat release characteristics are determined. Also share of the kinetic (premixed) and diffusion phases in the entire combustion process for all tested fuels are determined. The results for various mixtures are obtained under the same engine operating conditions and are referenced to the results for the standard hydrocarbon diesel fuel. The emission of toxic gases are determined in accordance with ISO 8178, based on the concentration of the exhaust gas components measured with AVL CEB II and smokemeter AVL DIGAS.