The Combustion Process in the Compression-Ignition Engine

Abstract

The object of the work, which was carried out in the University Engineering Laboratory, Oxford, was to investigate the combustion process in a compression-ignition engine by determining the extent of the chemical reactions of the fuel and air at various stages during the compression and expansion strokes. The results of the tests are illustrated by several curves showing the percentage volumes of the constituent gases in the engine cylinder at different points in the cycle. Various inferences are drawn concerning the combustion in this type of engine. Attempts were made to determine the concentration of aldehydes in the gases, but the tests showed that the amount was less than anticipated. Oxides of nitrogen were detected, and considered to have an influence upon cylinder wall corrosion. It is suggested that there is scope for further work using the sampling method for investigating combustion problems in engines under running conditions.