Establishing ideal CI engine input parameters for optimal engine output characteristics utilizing experimental and optimization techniques for series-hybrid powertrain

Abstract In order to establish the optimal performance, combustion, and emission parameters appropriate for a compression ignition (CI) engine series-hybrid configuration powertrain, this study aims at establishing the ideal engine input parameters, diesel-mahua biodiesel-ethanol blend ratio, and engine load. The input parameters were diesel-biodiesel with ethanol (10%, 15%, and 20% v/v ), and the engine load was varying between 20% and 100%. The optimization was carried out using desirability-based response surface methodology (RSM) with due consideration of the weights and importance of each of the output parameters. While the optimal input parameters were 17.78% ( v/v ) ethanol with B25 blend at 76.5% load, the output parameters were peak cylinder pressure (CP): 63.58 bar, heat release rate (HRR): 68.81 (J/° CA), brake thermal efficiency (BTE): 30.24%, brake-specific energy consumption (BSFC): 0.2991 kg kWh −1 , CO: 0.1049% ( v/v ), CO 2 : 9.61% ( v/v ), HC: 78 ppm, smoke: 12.62 N, and NOx: 900 ppm. Validation of the numerical data was done through actual engine experimental trials. Results from the work established an ideal blend ratio and load, suggesting an ideal operating condition for constant load applications of series-hybrid powertrain systems.