Efficiency optimization of a vehicle combustion engine by the adjustment of the spark advance angle

Abstract

Changing the ignition advance angle has a significant impact on the performance of a combustion engine. Optimization of ignition advance angle is a major task of adjusting engine concerning emission standards, fuel consumption, torque value, etc. The results of the research showed that the process of optimizing ignition advance curve can noticeably increase engine efficiency, as well as torque and power output from the engine, while reducing fuel consumption as a result of lower indications of the air flow mass per second from MAF sensor (mass air flow sensor). The highest impact of the ignition advanced angle modifications can be seen in the area of the highest volumetric efficiency of the tested combustion engine. Almost no impact is observed within high engine speed levels. Simultaneously increasing engine load and rotation speed increases the possibility of engine knocking, which has devastating effect on engine durability.