Effect of first-stage ignition on the onset of knocking in SI engines

Abstract

Knocking limits the performance and efficiency of highly compressed, downsized spark ignition combustion engines. In this paper, the effect of the first-stage ignition on knock is analyzed using a quasi-dimensional engine model. The standard coherent flame model is used for turbulent combustion, and five available reduced chemical kinetics mechanisms are applied to thermal ignition of the end-gas. Measurements in a modified CFR engine operating with two PRF mixtures are used to test the predictive ability of the models and to identify the conditions that lead to knocking. Although the chemical kinetics models used predict similar autoignition delay curves, they do not result in the same knock predictions. The results show that the chemistry must correctly capture the NTC range to predict the observed onset of knocking. In addition, the chemistry models are used to determine the first- and second-stage ignition delay times and their dependence on engine speed and compression ratio. Results show that the autoignition stages occur at relatively fixed temperatures, independent of engine speed and compression ratio. A sensitivity analysis shows that only one set of reactions in the low-temperature chemistry contributes to first-stage ignition, which in turn determines the onset of knocking. This suggests that fuel additives that inhibit or delay the inflection in the NTC region from low- to high-temperature could prevent knock in SI engines.