Survey of Gas Engine Performance and Future Trends

2003 ◽  
Author(s):  
Timothy J. Callahan
Keyword(s):  
Power Generation ◽  
Natural Gas ◽  
High Efficiency ◽  
Engine Performance ◽  
Exhaust Emission ◽  
Nox Emissions ◽  
Gas Engine ◽  
Natural Gas Engines ◽  
Reciprocating Engines ◽  
Performance And Emissions

Worldwide, reciprocating engines play a major role in power generation. Many of the reciprocating engines are diesel engines used as stand-by generators, but increasingly, natural gas engines are providing distributed base load generation and finding service in combined heat and power applications. The economics of power generation continues to place a premium on engine efficiency while environmental regulators continue to legislate lower and lower exhaust emission levels, specifically NOx emissions. NOx emissions and efficiency tend to be proportional, so while not mutually exclusive, low NOx and high efficiency are difficult to obtain simultaneously. In spite of the NOx-efficiency relationship, natural gas engines are more efficient with lower emissions today than in the past and the trend toward higher efficiency will continue in the future. This paper surveys current natural gas engine performance and emissions and projects future engine performance. This paper also introduces the ARES and ARICE programs for developing revolutionary technology for high efficiency and low emissions.

Evaluation of a Lean-Burn Natural Gas Engine Operating on Variable Methane Number Fuel

2011 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cory J. Kreutzer ◽  
Daniel B. Olsen ◽  
Robin J. Bremmer
Keyword(s):  
Natural Gas ◽  
High Efficiency ◽  
Engine Performance ◽  
Combustion Stability ◽  
Lean Burn ◽  
Natural Gas Engines ◽  
Spark Timing ◽  
Gas Compression ◽  
Fuel Blending ◽  
Methane Number

Wellhead gas from which pipeline natural gas originates has significant variability in composition due to natural variations in deposits. Gas quality is influenced by relative concentrations of both inert and hydrocarbon species. Gas compression engines utilizing wellhead gas as a fuel source often require significant installation time and adjustment of stock configuration due to fuel compositions that vary with time and location. Lean burn natural gas engines are chosen as wellhead compression engines for high efficiency and low emissions while minimizing the effect of variable gas composition. Ideal engine conditions are maintained by operating within the knock and misfire limits of the engine. Additional data is needed to find engine operational limitations. In this work, experimental data was collected on a Cummins GTA8.3SLB engine operating on variable methane number fuel under closed-loop equivalence ratio control. A fuel blending system was used to vary methane number to simulate wellhead compositions. NOx and CO emissions were found to increase with decreasing methane number while combustion stability remained constant. In addition, the effects of carbon dioxide and nitrogen diluents in the fuel were investigated. When diluents were present in the fuel, engine performance could be maintained by spark timing advance.

Experience With Gas Engines Optimized for H2-Rich Fuels

2003 ◽  
Author(s):  
G. R. Herdin ◽  
F. Gruber ◽  
D. Plohberger ◽  
M. Wagner
Keyword(s):  
Natural Gas ◽  
Fuel Efficiency ◽  
Electrical Power ◽  
Nox Emissions ◽  
Engine Emissions ◽  
Lean Burn ◽  
Good Efficiency ◽  
Gas Engine ◽  
Natural Gas Engines ◽  
Fuel Technology

The gas engine is a very efficient possibility of a technological approach for the conversion of chemically bound energy into mechanical or electrical power. Degrees of efficiency achieved thus far through the electrification of natural gas amount to up to 45% depending on the engine size and further potentials are already being opened up. Gas engines therefore do not need to fear a comparison with diesel engines in terms of efficiency. The modern gas engines have considerable advantages regarding emissions. The state of the art for the NOx emissions of natural gas engines can presently be given as 0.7 g/kWh (diesel 5 g NOx/kWh) with practically particle-free combustion. As a result of these features the gas engine is especially suitable for the very efficient process of cogeneration of heat and power, through which total degrees of fuel efficiency of about 90% can be attained. As such, the gas engine is even superior to all previously introduced types of fuel cells. The utilization of H2-rich gases as fuel can be seen as a new field of application of gas engines. Jenbacher AG already has many years of experience in the field of “H2-rich fuels” with optimization of combustion control and mixture formation. The H2 content extend from 100% to very low caloric values of gases in the range of 1.67 MJ/Nm3. The gases to be utilized by the gas engines come primarily from thermal pyrolysis processes of biomass or RDF fuels. A very good efficiency behavior with uncommonly low NOx emissions can be determined as the common result of all gas engine sizes. In the case of the high NH3 content of e.g. wood gas, despite the extreme lean-burn operation through the primary formation of NOx from the fuel, no NOx minimum can be attained. For the future, making the step into H2-rich fuel technology particularly regarding emissions means a big step towards the low NOx concepts and thus the further reduction of engine emissions.

Stoichiometric Operation of a Gas Engine Utilizing Synthesis Gas and EGR for NOx Control

2000 ◽  
Vol 122 (4) ◽  
pp. 617-623 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jack A. Smith ◽  
Gordon J. J. Bartley
Keyword(s):  
Natural Gas ◽  
Synthesis Gas ◽  
Engine Performance ◽  
Constant Load ◽  
Nox Emissions ◽  
Fuel Reforming ◽  
Southwest Research Institute ◽  
Performance And Emissions ◽  
Nox Control ◽  
Engine Performance And Emissions

This paper presents the results from an internal research study conducted at the Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) on the effects of stoichiometric mixtures of natural gas and synthesis gas with exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) on engine performance and exhaust emissions. Constant load performance and emissions tests were conducted on a modified, single-cylinder, Caterpillar 1Y540 research engine at 11.0 bar (160 psi) bmep. Engine performance and emissions comparisons between natural gas with EGR, and natural gas with syngas and EGR are presented. In addition, the performance characteristics of the fuel reforming catalyst are presented. Results show that thermal efficiency increases with increasing EGR for both natural gas operation and natural gas with syngas operation at constant load. The use of syngas with natural gas extended the EGR tolerance by 44.4 percent on a mass basis compared to natural gas only, leading to a 77 percent reduction in raw NOx emissions over the lowest natural gas with EGR NOx emissions. [S0742-4795(00)00504-4]

Performance Characterization of Alternative Ignition Systems Using Optical Tools in Natural Gas Engines

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bipin Bihari ◽  
Munidhar S. Biruduganti ◽  
Roberto Torelli ◽  
Dan Singleton
Keyword(s):  
Natural Gas ◽  
Engine Performance ◽  
Lean Burn ◽  
Natural Gas Engines ◽  
Reciprocating Engine ◽  
Optical Tools ◽  
Discharge Ignition ◽  
Performance And Emissions ◽  
Engine Performance And Emissions

Lean-burn combustion dominates the current reciprocating engine R&D efforts due to its inherent benefits of high BTE and low emissions. The ever-increasing push for high power densities necessitates high boost pressures. Therefore, the reliability and durability of ignition systems face greater challenges. In this study, four ignition systems, namely, stock Capacitive discharge ignition (CDI), Laser ignition, Flame jet ignition (FJI), and Nano-pulse delivery (NPD) ignition were tested using a single cylinder natural gas engine. Engine performance and emissions characteristics are presented highlighting the benefits and limitations of respective ignition systems. Optical tools enabled delving into the ignition delay period and assisted with some characterization of the spark and its impact on subsequent processes. It is evident that advanced ignition systems such as Lasers, Flame-jets and Nano-pulse delivery enable extension of the lean ignition limits of fuel/air mixtures compared to base CDI system.

Lean NOx Trap Catalysis for NOx Reduction in Natural Gas Engine Applications

2004 ◽  
Author(s):  
James E. Parks ◽  
H. Douglas Ferguson ◽  
Aaron M. Williams ◽  
John M. E. Storey
Keyword(s):  
Power Generation ◽  
Carbon Monoxide ◽  
Natural Gas ◽  
Nox Reduction ◽  
Lean Nox Trap ◽  
Nox Trap ◽  
Gas Engine ◽  
Natural Gas Engine ◽  
Reciprocating Engines ◽  
Lean Nox

Reliable power generation and distribution is a critical infrastructure for the public and industry. Large-bore spark-ignited natural gas reciprocating engines are a reliable source of power generation. Lean operation enables efficient operation, and engines can conveniently be placed wherever natural gas resources are located. However, stricter emission regulations may limit the installation and use of more natural gas reciprocating engines if emissions cannot be reduced. Natural gas engine emissions of concern are generally methane, carbon monoxide, and oxides of nitrogen (NOx). Methane and carbon monoxide can be controlled by oxidation catalysts; however NOx emissions are difficult to control in lean exhaust conditions. One method of reducing NOx in lean exhaust conditions is lean NOx trap catalysis. Lean NOx trap technologies (also known as NOx adsorber catalysts, NOx storage and reduction catalysts, etc.) have demonstrated >90% NOx reduction for diesel reciprocating engines and natural gas turbines. In the work presented here, the feasibility of a lean NOx trap catalyst for lean burn natural gas reciprocating engines will be studied. Tests were conducted on a Cummins 8.3-liter engine on a dynamometer. The lean Nox trap catalyst was controlled in a valved exhaust system that utilized natural gas as the catalyst reductant. Oxidation and reformer catalysts were used to enhance utilization of methane for catalyst regeneration. The feasibility of this approach will be discussed based on the observed NOx reduction and associated fuel penalties.

Assessment of Hydrogen and Natural Gas Mixtures in a Large Bore Gas Engine for Power Generation

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bernhard Fercher ◽  
Andreas Wimmer ◽  
Jan Zelenka ◽  
Gernot Kammel ◽  
Zita Baumann
Keyword(s):  
Power Generation ◽  
Natural Gas ◽  
Internal Combustion Engines ◽  
Nox Emissions ◽  
Substitution Rates ◽  
Fuel Gas ◽  
High Hydrogen ◽  
Gas Engine ◽  
Hydrogen Substitution ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Now more than ever there is a growing global interest to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions originating from internal combustion engines. One approach consists in the use of hydrogen instead of fossil fuels. Large bore gas engines for power generation are often fueled by gases with high methane content. Relative to natural gas-fueled engines, the power densities of premixed or port-fuel-injected hydrogen engines are limited due to low volumetric efficiencies and moreover by occurring irregular combustion events (knocking, backfire). The paper presents results from experimental investigations of the impact of different hydrogen substitution rates in natural gas on performance, emissions and operating limits on a single cylinder research engine. The engine is representative for a large bore gas engine for power generation and operates using an open chamber combustion concept with lean mixtures. Essentially, THC, CO2 and CO emissions decrease with rising hydrogen content of the fuel gas. Even with low concentrations of hydrogen in the fuel gas, significant reductions in THC emissions could be demonstrated. Usually NOX emissions will rise with unchanged operating parameters. However, if excess-air ratio and spark timing are adjusted, a net reduction of NOX emissions can be achieved while the impact on brake thermal efficiency is small. Furthermore, the paper outlines potential mitigation strategies to expand the operational limits with respect to power density with high hydrogen substitution rates.

Design and Analysis of the Waukesha APG1000 Engine

2006 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rodney Nicoson ◽  
Julian Knudsen
Keyword(s):  
Power Generation ◽  
Computer Simulation ◽  
Natural Gas ◽  
Rapid Prototyping ◽  
Thermal Efficiency ◽  
High Efficiency ◽  
Design Method ◽  
Department Of Energy ◽  
Gas Engine ◽  
Natural Gas Engine

Waukesha Engine, in cooperation with the Department of Energy, has designed a new high efficiency natural gas engine designed specifically for the power generation market. The APG1000 (Advance Power Generation) engine is capable of achieving 1 MW output at 42% thermal efficiency and less than 1 g/bhp-hr Nox. A design method using modern tools such as 3-D modeling, rapid prototyping and computer simulation have, in a large part, contributed to the success of this engine. This paper discusses the methodology and tools used in the design of the APG engine.

Strategies for Reduced NOx Emissions in Pilot-Ignited Natural Gas Engines

2002 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sundar R. Krishnan ◽  
Kalyan K. Srinivasan ◽  
Weidong Gong ◽  
Scott Fiveland ◽  
Satbir Singh ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Natural Gas ◽  
Fuel Injection ◽  
Nox Reduction ◽  
Engine Performance ◽  
Injection Timing ◽  
Nox Emissions ◽  
Pilot Injection ◽  
Engine Operation ◽  
Performance And Emissions ◽  
Inlet Conditions

The performance and emissions of a single-cylinder, natural gas fueled engine using a pilot ignition strategy have been investigated. Small diesel pilots (2–3 percent on an energy basis), when used to ignite homogeneous natural gas-air mixtures, are shown to possess the potential for reduced NOx emissions while maintaining good engine performance. The effect of pilot injection timing, intake charge pressure, and charge temperature on engine performance and emissions with natural gas fueling was studied. With appropriate control of the above variables, engine-out brake specific NOx emissions could be reduced to the range of 0.07–0.10 g/kWh from the baseline diesel (with mechanical fuel injection) value of 10.5 g/kWh. For this NOx reduction, the decrease in fuel conversion efficiency from the baseline diesel value was approximately 1–2 percent. Total unburned hydrocarbon (HC) emissions and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions were higher with natural gas operation. Heat release schedules obtained from measured cylinder pressure data are also presented. The importance of pilot injection timing and inlet conditions on the stability of engine operation and knock are also discussed.

Strategies for Reduced NOx Emissions in Pilot-Ignited Natural Gas Engines

2003 ◽  
Vol 126 (3) ◽  
pp. 665-671 ◽  
Author(s):  
S. R. Krishnan ◽  
K. K. Srinivasan ◽  
S. Singh ◽  
S. R. Bell ◽  
K. C. Midkiff ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Natural Gas ◽  
Fuel Injection ◽  
Nox Reduction ◽  
Engine Performance ◽  
Injection Timing ◽  
Nox Emissions ◽  
Pilot Injection ◽  
Engine Operation ◽  
Performance And Emissions ◽  
Inlet Conditions

The performance and emissions of a single-cylinder natural gas fueled engine using a pilot ignition strategy have been investigated. Small diesel pilots (2–3% on an energy basis), when used to ignite homogeneous natural gas-air mixtures, are shown to possess the potential for reduced NOx emissions while maintaining good engine performance. The effects of pilot injection timing, intake charge pressure, and charge temperature on engine performance and emissions with natural gas fueling were studied. With appropriate control of the above variables, it was shown that full-load engine-out brake specific NOx emissions could be reduced to the range of 0.07–0.10 g/kWh from the baseline diesel (with mechanical fuel injection) value of 10.5 g/kWh. For this NOx reduction, the decrease in fuel conversion efficiency from the baseline diesel value was approximately one to two percentage points. Total unburned hydrocarbon (HC) emissions and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions were higher with natural gas operation. The nature of combustion under these conditions was analyzed using heat release schedules predicted from measured cylinder pressure data. The importance of pilot injection timing and inlet conditions on the stability of engine operation and knock are also discussed.

Effects of Natural Gas Compositions on Engine In-Cylinder Process

2015 ◽  
Vol 1092-1093 ◽  
pp. 498-503
Author(s):  
La Xiang ◽  
Yu Ding
Keyword(s):  
Natural Gas ◽  
Alternative Fuels ◽  
Combustion Process ◽  
Engine Performance ◽  
Maximum Temperature ◽  
Maximum Pressure ◽  
Test Bed ◽  
Promising Alternative ◽  
Natural Gas Engines ◽  
Lower Maximum

Natural gas (NG) is one of the most promising alternative fuels of diesel and petrol because of its economics and environmental protection. Generally the NG engine share the similar structure profile with diesel or petrol engine but the combustion characteristics of NG is varied from the fuels, so the investigation of NG engine combustion process receive more attentions from the researchers. In this paper, a zero-dimensional model on the basis of Vibe function is built in the MATLAB/SIMULINK environment. The model provides the prediction of combustion process in natural gas engines, which has been verified by the experimental data in the NG test bed. Furthermore, the influence of NG composition on engine performance is investigated, in which the in-cylinder maximum pressure and temperature and mean indicated pressure are compared using different type NG. It is shown in the results that NG with higher composition of methane results in lower maximum temperature and mean indicated pressure as well as higher maximum pressure.

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