Analysis of Cyclic Variations and Combustion Behavior of Liquid Phase Hydrocarbons Under Uniform Axial and Radial Magnetic Fields

Abstract

The present study experimentally investigates the combustion characteristics of a multi-cylinder MPFI spark ignition engine fuelled by gasoline under uniform magnetic fields. Permanent magnets made of N38 grade NdFeB are used to magnetize the liquid phase hydrocarbons and the impact produced on combustion characteristics like in-cylinder pressure and net heat release rate are studied under different speeds and load conditions of the engine operation. Three different magnetic intensities (3200 G, 4800 G, and 6400 G) are employed in two different magnetization patterns (axial and radial) at an inbuilt ignition timing of 5 deg bTDC. Magnetic field assisted combustion is observed to enhance the performance characteristics of the engine, while simultaneously reducing the exhaust emissions to a significant level. A statistical analysis of cyclic fluctuations in magnetic field-assisted combustion is also made which shows a reduction in fluctuations (COV) with the application of each stage of ionization. The increase observed in peak pressures and heat release rates along throughout the combustion cycles with reduction in cyclic variations indicate that magnetic field-assisted combustion exhibits better combustion characteristics as compared to normal gasoline combustion. © 2023, The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd.