Effect of Stabilized Water-Diesel Emulsions on External Combustion Characteristics
This study presents an experimental investigation of emulsified fuels with water content of 10%, 20% and 30% by volume, using a small furnace under steady combustion conditions. Pure diesel is used as a baseline in the conducted external combustion for comparison purposes. The study found that water content in the emulsion has strong impact on the flame temperature, the flame heat release and the combustion efficiency. The 20% water-diesel emulsion showed a lower flame temperature and higher combustion efficiency. Using the proper water-diesel emulsion, 20%, the heat release rate of the emulsified fuels is comparable to the one obtained in the pure diesel case. The highest flame temperature and heat flux transfer to water jacket is achieved at pure diesel (0% water content). The optimum water content in diesel emulsion strongly depends on the liquid fuel nozzle design.