Future Relevance of IC engines for transportation and Power-on-Demand. Characteristic performance parameters, operating maps and duty cycles. Thermodynamic cycles and energetic optimization. In-cylinder flows, convective and radiative heat transfer, combustion modes, boosting and simulation methods. Hybrid powertrains, decentralized power/heat cogeneration and use of renewable/e-fuels.
Learning objective
The students get familiar with operating characteristics and efficiency maximization methods of IC engines for propulsion and decentralized electricity (and heat) generation. To this end, they learn about simulation methods and related experimental techniques for performance assessment in a combination of lectures and exercises.
Content
This lecture aims at introducing the students to the working principles and efficiency optimization methods for Internal Combustion (IC) engines which are expected to continue to play a very important role in transportation (long-haul heavy duty, marine) and decentralized combined heat and power generation. Following an overview of different applications and powertrains, the course will focus on the following topics: First, a generic overview of the history of IC-Engines is given, and the basic dimensions and specific engine-relevant terminology are introduced. Next, operating maps for different duty cycles are discussed, highlighting the benefits of individual powertrain configurations for different usage scenarios. The high-pressure thermodynamic process and combustion-induced heat release are analyzed in detail and the design of the combustion processes is discussed in view of further optimization of the energy conversion efficiency. The concept of boosting, its challenges and potential are also presented. In addition, flow field characteristics, convective and radiative heat transfer and combustion modes (Otto, Diesel and “multi-mode” cycles) will be discussed along with possible simulation methods. The course consists of lectures combined with exercises. In addition, several invited guest talks will be held by representatives from Swiss industrial companies active in this field. Provided the pandemic measures allow, visits to different engine test facilities are further envisioned.
Literature
J. Heywood, Internal Combustion Engine Fundamentals, McGraw-Hill
Prerequisites / Notice
This course provides background for the course 151-0254-00L “Environmental Aspects of Future Mobility” held in the Spring Semester, where the focus is on emission formation and minimization, exhaust gas after treatment systems and potentials of future synthetic/e-fuels in IC engines; all given in the broader context of a future mobility/transportation options (battery electric, hybrids, fuel cells etc.) and transformation pathways towards sustainability.
Competencies
Subject-specific Competencies
Concepts and Theories
assessed
Techniques and Technologies
assessed
Method-specific Competencies
Analytical Competencies
assessed
Performance assessment
Performance assessment information (valid until the course unit is held again)
The performance assessment is offered every session. Repetition possible without re-enrolling for the course unit.
Mode of examination
oral 30 minutes
Additional information on mode of examination
In addition to the final oral examination, there is one compulsory continuous performance assessment with a pass/fail criteria. This consists of laboratory, computer and other exercises plus an excursion (in total six), distributed as evenly as possible over the semester). Four of these must be completed (pass/fail assessment) to pass the continuous performance assessment. If the compulsory continuous performance assessment is not passed, the exam cannot be taken.
This information can be updated until the beginning of the semester; information on the examination timetable is binding.
Learning materials
No public learning materials available.
Only public learning materials are listed.
Groups
No information on groups available.
Restrictions
There are no additional restrictions for the registration.
Performance assessment as a semester course