3/12/2012

Combustion of biodiesel in automobiles: A Technical Description by Lekan Andrew To: ENG 202C, SEC. 18

Audience and Purpose:

The purpose of this technical definition write-up is to explain how a biodiesel engine utilizes internal combustion to convert biofuel to mechanical energy in automobiles. The audience that I target with this description write-up includes all sorts of renewable energy or biofuel enthusiasts who might like to know more about the engines designed for biodiesel and how they differ from that of its counterpart, gasoline. The audience might also want to use this description to evaluate whether or not to purchase a biodiesel powered automobile.

Introduction:
The biodiesel engine of an automobile, like any other uses an internal combustion engine for conversion of a particular fuel (gasoline or diesel) from chemical energy to mechanical energy. However, internal combustion engines fall into two operating categories called the Otto cycle and the Diesel cycle. The biodiesel engine uses an internal combustion engine that follows the diesel cycle system. In an internal combustion engine, combustion of a particular fuel (gasoline or diesel) takes place in a combustion chamber where high-temperature and high-pressure gases are released and applied as force to move the pistons of the engine. As the pistons move back and forth (linear motion), chemical energy is being transformed into useful mechanical energy.

Technical terms defined

Biodiesel: A form of diesel fuel produced from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled
restaurant greases. It is a safe alternative of conventional gasoline or diesel, as it is biodegradable, and produces less air pollutants.

Otto cycle: Also known as the four-stroke cycle, it is the typical cycle for most of cars that use
gasoline as a fuel. The strokes include; Intake stroke fuel and air are collected Compression stroke compression and ignition occurs Combustion stroke combustion occurs and gases are released to move pistons Exhaust stroke Also called heat rejection process. Exhaust valve opens to release exhaust.

Diesel cycle: It is similar to the Otto cycle except it uses diesel and not gasoline, and it combines the compression and combustion stroke in one. Combustion chamber: An enclosed cylinder where fuel mixes with an oxidizer (Usually air) to burn for combustion. Pistons: Component in the combustion chamber that moves to transfer force from the chamber to the crankshaft. It moves as a result of the chemical to mechanical energy conversion process. Crankshaft: A single long piece of metal that rotates in a circular motion and causes the wheels of a car to move. Combustion Process Illustrated

Advantages and Disadvantages of Biodiesel in Internal Combustion Engines Advantages Disadvantages

Fuel produced from renewable resources Can be used in most diesel engines Less air pollution Biodegradable and non-toxic Generally safe to the environment

Blends above a certain grade of biodiesel (B5 or 5% biodiesel and 95% diesel) are not yet warrantied by auto makers Currently more expensive B100 (100% biodiesel) are not suitable for use in low temperatures B100 tends to have a negative impact on engines durability

Conclusion:
Although biodiesel has a lot of benefits, especially to the environment, there aren`t good enough factors that support it in the energy industry. Before most consumers consider it as a viable option, auto makers ought to show support for the alternative fuel by creating warranties for grades beyond just the B5. Also, government policies should be put in place to support research for new technological developments for better durability in its engines. All the factors that currently oppose the use of biodiesel in today`s energy industry culminate in the high cost of using the technology. References:
http://www.grc.nasa.gov/WWW/k-12/airplane/powert.html http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/biodiesel.shtml http://www.rc-airplane-world.com/nitro-car-engine.html