Performance Optimization of VCR Diesel Engine Using Soybean Oil-Based Biodiesel

Abstract

In the present work, the performance of four-stroke variable compression ratio diesel engine is evaluated using soybean-based biodiesel. Blends of biodiesel are prepared by varying percentage of biodiesel in diesel (B20, B40, B60). Engine input parameters such as compression ratio (13:1, 15:1, 17:1) and load (4, 8, 1.2 kg) are varied to optimize the results. Taguchi method of optimization is used to study the effect of various combinations of input parameters on performance of VCR engine. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) is done to identify significance of individual input parameter on brake power, brake-specific fuel consumption, and exhaust emission. The optimization helps to select optimum values of compression ratio and load that would minimize exhaust emission and brake-specific fuel consumption but also maximize brake power. Engine performance is highly influenced by load.