Review of an Eulerian Σ -Y Spray Atomization Model for Nozzle Flow and Near-Field Diesel Spray Modeling

Abstract

In order to contribute to a more environment-friendly community, a lot of research is still needed in the field of fossil fuels and internal combustion engines. In those applications, fuel injection systems are one of the key subsystems. However, due to their small characteristic sizes and timescale experiments are difficult to carry out. Thus, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) has been a very successful tool to improve engine efficiency during the last years. Several models have been successfully developed to accomplish that goal. One of the latest is the Eulerian or Eulerian–Lagrangian spray atomization model, which has proved to be able to deal with multi-phase flow physics taking place during fuel injection. The key feature of this model is that it is able to seamlessly simulate both the nozzle internal flow and the subsequent spray development into the ambient gas. In this chapter, a review of this model with examples of its applications is performed. Nozzle flow parameters such as fuel mass flow rate and momentum flux are accurately predicted. The flow pattern (pressure, velocity, and temperature) is then analyzed to give ideas about how to improve the nozzle design. At the same time, fuel atomization and mixing with the surrounding gas can also be studied. Spray macroscopic parameters penetration length (both liquid and vapor) and spray angle are again precisely calculated when compared with experimental measurements. Additionally, this model could be also used to analyze microscopic parameters such as droplet size and distribution. This is done by the calculation of the interphase surface density with the addition of a new transport equation. Even though this model has shown great potential in the field of multi-phase flows for engine applications, there is still room for improvement for its sub-models and programming.