Theoretical and Experimental Analysis of OM314 Diesel Engine Combustion and Performance Characteristics Fueled with DME

Among the alternative diesel engine fuels, dimethyl ether (DME) attracted so much attention as an alternative fuel for the diesel engine since the properties of the DME are fitted to the diesel engine combustion. There are high expectations for DME as a new alternative fuel in heavy-duty diesel engines. This research investigates a naturally aspirated diesel engine combustion and performances characteristics while using DME. In the experimental part of the work, OM314 direct-injection diesel engine was used as a base engine. A comprehensive full cycle was coupled with a multi zone combustion model to simulate performance characteristics of the engine. Results of the volumetric efficiency show that the highest brake torque is achievable in the middle speed range. The power-speed diagram shows that brake torque in diesel mode operation is much higher than DME operation, where the engine speed is less than 1900rpm. However in engine speeds over than 1900rpm, brake torque in DME mode operation would be higher. Emissions results show that, almost zero soot is produced in DME operation and NOx emissions are also reduced up to 75 percent in comparison with diesel mode operation.