A Comparison of the Direct Injection of Propane and Iso-octane under Homogeneous-charge, Spark-ignition Engine Conditions

Abstract

This paper evaluates the macroscopic characteristics of fuel sprays from a multi-hole fuel injector under simulated homogeneous-charge operation in spark-ignited (SI) internal combustion (IC) engines. Spray penetration and projected area are qualitatively investigated by employing high-speed Schlieren and diffuse back-illumination imaging techniques in a constant volume chamber (CVC). The results are then used to evaluate the impacts of ambient conditions and fuel properties on the formation of liquid and vapour phases. Results of investigations with iso-octane and liquid propane, acting as surrogates for gasoline and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), highlight the differences between the vapor..