Multidimensional Modeling of Diesel Ignition and Combustion Using a Multistep Kinetics Model

Ignition and combustion mechanisms in diesel engines were studied using the KIVA code, with modifications to the combustion, heat transfer, crevice flow, and spray models. A laminar-and-turbulent characteristic-time combustion model that has been used successfully for spark-ignited engine studies was extended to allow predictions of ignition and combustion in diesel engines. A more accurate prediction of ignition delay was achieved by using a multistep chemical kinetics model. The Shell knock model was implemented for this purpose and was found to be capable of predicting successfully the autoignition of homogeneous mixtures in a rapid compression machine and diesel spray ignition under engine conditions. The physical significance of the model parameters is discussed and the sensitivity of results to the model constants is assessed. The ignition kinetics model was also applied to simulate the ignition process in a Cummins diesel engine. The post-ignition combustion was simulated using both a single-step Arrhenius kinetics model and also the characteristic-time model to account for the energy release during the mixing-controlled combustion phase. The present model differs from that used in earlier multidimensional computations of diesel ignition in that it also includes state-of-the-art turbulence and spray atomization models. In addition, in this study the model predictions are compared to engine data. It is found that good levels of agreement with the experimental data are obtained using the multistep chemical kinetics model for diesel ignition modeling. However, further study is needed of the effects of turbulent mixing on post-ignition combustion.