Effect of preheating palm oil biodiesel fuel on the performance and emissions of diesel engine common rail direct injection

Fossil fuel consumption continues to increase while its reserves continue to decrease and produce high emissions that trigger global warming. Therefore, more environmentally friendly alternative energy is needed. Biodiesel is a sustainable choice because it is biodegradable, low in sulphur, and can replace fossil fuels. This study investigates the influence of biodiesel fuel preheating temperature on engine performance, fuel consumption, and emissions in a Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) diesel engine. The experimental method was carried out by heating B40 and B50 fuels at temperatures of 40°C to 60°C at intervals of 10 °C. Engine performance was evaluated using a chassis dynamometer at engine speeds of 1500 to 3000 rpm at intervals of 500 rpm, fuel consumption was measured with a digital scale, and exhaust emissions testing was carried out using an opacity smoke meter. Fuel preheating at 60°C in B40 and B50 blends improved engine performance, where power output increased by up to 1.03% (78.3 vs 77.5 HP), torque rose by up to 2.64% (178.6 vs 174 Nm), BSFC reduced by up to 7.30%, and opacity emissions decreased by up to 40% compared to fossil diesel. Fuel preheating improves atomization and promotes cleaner combustion in a diesel engine.