Publication Date

2013-11-26

Availability

Embargoed

Embargo Period

2015-11-26

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Mechanical Engineering (Engineering)

Date of Defense

2013-11-21

First Committee Member

Michael R. Swain

Second Committee Member

Matthew N. Swain

Third Committee Member

Singiresu S. Rao

Abstract

Internal combustion engine powered generator sets are vastly used worldwide, usually with minimally modified automobile engines. The automobile engine is designed for a very different operation than that required in a generator set, resulting in poor efficiencies when compared to those possible with a more thorough redesign. This research effort investigates the feasibility of using engine parts from multiple engines (principally a Nissan KA24 block and a Nissan Z20 cylinder head) to create a new engine designed specifically for use in a generator set, with a constant engine speed of 1800 RPM. The engine, dubbed the Nissan ZKA26, is fueled by a lean mixture of LPG and has a high compression ratio of 14.6:1. The combustion chamber is hemispherical, resulting in low surface area to volume ratios, which combined with the lack of swirl and squish result in minimal heat losses compared with previous research in this field.

Keywords

ZKA26; lean burn; LPG; propane; generator; genset

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