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Results
Results
After completing my trials, I calculated the work done by the engine during the trials and then compared it against the energy that went into the system. This value was then charted against the rest of the trials in order to visualize the efficiency of each trial. Looking at the chart to the left it is evident at the majority of the trials were less efficient than the control oil run. This data suggests that typically, vegetable oils are less efficient lubricators than mineral based oil. However, one trial did outperform the control run. This was the 30% Castor 70% Vegetable Oil mixture.
Discussion
Discussion
These results, especially the 30% Castor 70% Vegetable oil, suggest that a vegetable based two stroke oil is possible. However, a lot more needs to be done when investigating this possibility. Future research could include a Panel-Coker test to investigate whether these oils will leave deposits on the inside of the engine and possibly stop it from working. More research should also investigate more additives the oils to improve overall performance.
In terms of limitations, there are a few. Such as human errors, not a big enough sample size, not enough trials, Engine wear as the trials went on, trials possibly interfering with each other, and problems with keeping the engine running.
Conclusion
Conclusion
In terms of the larger academic conversation, my research adds to previous research on biodegradable two stroke oils. Previous research looked into different oils than the ones that I investigated or marine application of similar oils. My study in particular is supposed to lay the groundwork for future studies that will investigate the lubricative properties of these oils. My study suggests that it could be possible for vegetable oils to be used in two stroke engines. In terms of why does this matter at all. My rersearch implies that there may be a way to create a two stroke oil that is carbon nuetral and does not kill the environment. Because this oil can be made from vegetable oils which are already mass produced at a lower cost that mineral based oils, these vegetable derived oils could be more cost efficient that mineral based ones and be more appealing in every aspect.
Research Uncertainty
Research Uncertainty
The uncertainty in my research was incredibly high. I struggled for 3 months to have a working setup. I spent money trying different solutions and ideas but none seemed to work for a long time until I switched to using a DC motor as a generator.
After that, the trials themselves were very hard to run. I had to tweak the setup a few more times and rerun certain trials a few times. All in all, the research was high risk high reward. The lesson that I learned from how many issues I had and the high uncertainty is that as long as you keep finding ways to circumvent a problem, there will always be a solution. Just keep applying yourself.
Revised Research Process
Revised Research Process
If I were to reconduct this research I would change a few things immediately. First I would change the fuel delivery system to the carburetor for a more efficient system to ensure there were no losses. Next, I would conduct more trials and test a wider range of variables. I would also use a bigger and more robust system for turning kinetic energy into electrical energy. Finally, if I had more time I would disassemble the entire setup and clean it in between trials.
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