Effect of Methanol Injector Bore Arrangement on Combustion and Emissions in Dual-Fuel Engines

Xu Guo, Jiarui Chen and Xiwu Gong ()
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Xu Guo: School of Naval Architecture and Maritime, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, China
Jiarui Chen: School of Naval Architecture and Maritime, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, China
Xiwu Gong: School of Naval Architecture and Maritime, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, China

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 8, 1-21

Abstract: The physical and chemical properties of methanol differ significantly from those of conventional diesel, and its injection strategy plays a critical role in engine performance. In this study, a three-dimensional simulation model of a methanol–diesel dual-fuel engine integrated with chemical reaction kinetics was developed using CONVERGE software. The effects of methanol injection position and angle on combustion characteristics, emission performance, and engine economy were systematically investigated through numerical simulation and theoretical analysis, leading to the optimization of the methanol injection strategy. By varying the distance between the methanol nozzle and the cylinder head as well as the methanol injection angle, changes in temperature, pressure, heat release rate (HRR), and other engine parameters were analyzed. Additionally, the impact on emissions, including soot, HC, CO, and NOx, was evaluated, providing a theoretical foundation for optimizing dual-fuel engine performance and enhancing methanol utilization efficiency. The results indicate that the methanol injection position minimally affects engine performance. When the methanol spray is positioned 3 mm from the cylinder head, it facilitates the formation of a homogeneous mixture, resulting in optimal power output and enhanced environmental performance. In contrast, the injection angle has a more pronounced effect on combustion and emission characteristics. At a methanol injection angle of 65°, the mixture homogeneity reaches its optimal level, leading to a significant enhancement in combustion efficiency and engine power performance. Excessive injection angles may lead to combustion deterioration and reduced engine performance. The primary reason is that an excessive spray angle may cause methanol spray to impinge on the cylinder wall. This leads to wall wetting, which adversely affects mixture formation and combustion.

Keywords: methanol; dual-fuel; injector holes; spray; combustion; emissions (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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