Thermodynamic and experimental analysis of turbocharger for a downsized LPG fuelled automotive SI engine

There has been extensive research on efficient energy conversion systems which also includes turbocharging the automotive SI engine. This research focuses on comparing the thermodynamic aspects of the turbine at different boost pressures at maximum engine torque and speed regions. A naturally aspirated CNG SI engine developing 15.5 kW at 3400 rpm was converted to a turbocharged LPG engine at the compression ratio of 8.5:1. The turbine performance was evaluated using ANSYS CFX numerical simulation tool and results were validated. The simulation study reveals that 1.3 bar boost pressure has a higher enthalpy generation and also has minimal Mach number than 1.5 bar signifying the effects of exhaust blowdown. Further, the experimental study was carried out at different boost pressures. The results show that at 1.3 bar, the turbine efficiency was higher with reduced heat transfer rate to the compressor which was due to reduced friction work compared to 1.5 bar which altogether improved the engine performance. This is also evident from the minimal COV of IMEP for 1.3 bar. On the whole, the turbine exhibited better performance for 1.3 bar and resulted in reduced thermal loading.