Design and analysis of a turbocharged single cylinder diesel engine intake system for increased power output and transient response

Abstract

Small displacement, single-cylinder diesel engines have many applications in developing countries such as small-powered agricultural equipment, water pumps, and other power sources. Research has shown that the power of a turbocharged single-cylinder engine can match that of a larger displacement multi-cylinder, naturally aspirated engine, at a fraction of the cost. The valve timing mismatch that occurs when turbocharging a single cylinder engine is solved by adding a large volume air intake as a buffer for the pressurized air. This thesis explores the design, methodology, and testing of modifying the additional air intake to passively varying its volume during operation. Mechanical design of the variable volume air capacitor is established. Next, the experimental setup is discussed. Finally, both steady state and transient experimental results are discussed.