Experimental Study of the Effects of Biodiesel on the Performance of a Diesel Power Generator

Abstract

Biodiesel can be used as an alternative fuel in diesel engines due to environmental and energy concerns. Considering the existing resources in Iran, interests on expansion of biodiesel production and application have been sped up by the Iranian government. So, in this study the effect of biodiesel from waste cooking oil and diesel fuel blends (B0, B20, B50, B80 and B100) on the performance characteristics (brake power, brake torque, BSFC and brake thermal efficiency) of a diesel power generator model CAT3412 was investigated. The experiments were conducted at rated engine speed 1530 r/min and various engine loads (25%, 50%, 75% and 100%). The results of the study showed an increase in brake power, brake torque and brake thermal efficiency and a reduction trend in brake-specific fuel consumption at higher engine loads for all the biodiesel-diesel blends. In addition, the research results indicated that B20 and B50 fuel blends in terms of performance characteristics could be recognised as the potential candidates to be certificated for usage in the diesel power generator.