Assessment of single- and two-zone turbulence formulations for quasi-dimensional modeling of spark-ignition engine combustion

A systematic study of alternative single- and two-zone turbulence models proposed in the literature is performed by comparing their performance against experimental results. These models are evaluated in the context of a quasi-dimensional spark-ignition engine simulation based on the turbulent entrainment model of combustion. Crank-angle resolved cylinder pressures predicted by various models are compared to in-cylinder measurements. All models are calibrated at one operating point and their performance is assessed by keeping all empirical constants fixed at their calibration values. By performing full cycle simulations, it is shown that the two-zone models can better predict engine combustion over a wide range of speeds and loads without relying on adjustable constants or experimental initial values for each operating point.