Faculty: Dr. Valentin Soloiu, Mech Eng, Dr. Brian Koehler Chemistry

Objectives: CEC’s Fundamental Combustion Laboratory has embarked on a multiyear study of the 2-stage ignition phenomenon of both highly & low reactive synthetic paraffinic kerosene (S8/SPK; DCN 60), & Sasol (IPK DCN 31). The Low-Temperature Heat Release (LTHR)/cool flames and Negative Temperature Coefficient Region (NTCR) are studied in a constant volume combustion chamber (CVCC).

Equipment & Methods: The research apparatus is composed of a CVCC, (PAC Cetane ID 510 presented in the equipment section). The REU students will learn to identify the timing of appearance of cool flames, NTC behavior, and the transition to HTHR. They will learn to use the Mie-scattering He-Ne laser to determine the Sauter Mean Diameter of droplets in spray. They will determine the derived cetane number (DCN) followed by the change of the operating conditions: chamber temperature from 535-650 ºC, fuel-injection duration from 0.4-3 ms, and fuel-injection pressure from 600-1400 bar, resulting in various air/fuel ratios. They will record and analyze the pressure traces and determine the LTHR and HTHR.

Educational Outcomes: REU students training will focus on the processes occurring in jet engines. The REU students will learn to identify the factors that affect ignition delay, LTHR, NTC region and onset of HTHR; understand the fundamentals of sprays, develop knowledge of advanced instrumentation, measurements and error analysis. A draft paper & poster for conference presentation are required.