REQUIREMENTS FOR THE FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM TO USE OF BIODIESEL

Abstract

Biodiesel, when used as an alternative fuel in its pure state or mixed with diesel, requires certain modifications of time and pressure of the fuel injection to the engine. In the present study, the properties and characteristics to fulfill by fuel injector nozzles when biodiesel is used as fuel, are determined. With the characterization results of neat diesel and neat biodiesel; as well as a blend of 20% biodiesel and 80% diesel, the main parameters of the fuel injection were calculated and simulated according to the power requirements of the engine. The purpose of the present investigation is to determine the fuel injection control parameters that allow equivalent use of diesel and biodiesel, without any change in its components. It was found that maintaining the diameter of the nozzle holes, the atomization characteristics of both type of fuels can be maintained by controlling the injection time and pressure; compensating in addition, differences in heat values, density and viscosity of biodiesel blends compared to neat diesel. Biodiesel is the alternative to pollution problems and sources of energy to operate internal combustion engines; however, to be established as a sustainable and immediately applicable solution, modifications to the engine must be at the level of fuel injection control, avoiding any kind of change or replacement of components. Keywords: Biodiesel, Diesel, Nozzle, Flow rate, Density, Fuel injection.