Applicability of Electrical Capacitance Tomography to the Study of Gasoline Direct Injection Sprays and Combustion

Wendy C. Sanders1, Prof. Steven L. Ceccio2, Prof. Volker Sick1

1 University of Michigan, Department of Mechanical Engineering, 1231 Beal Ave., Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2121, wendusa@engin.umich.edu

2 University of Michigan, Department of Mechanical Engineering, 2350 Hayward St., Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2125, ceccio@umich.edu, vsick@umich.edu

ABSTRACT

A diagnostic tool for calibrating and evaluating variable fuel mixing combustion parameters in internal combustion engines is being developed. The feasibility of a non-invasive measurements system based on electric capacitance tomography (ECT) applicable for in-cylinder measurements in production or near-production engines will be evaluated. Planar-laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) measurements will be utilized in the development stage of the system as a crosscheck and calibration method. It is the focus of this research to combine the strengths of both techniques to develop a valuable diagnostic tool for non-intrusive measurements to improve gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine performance.

Keywords Electrical Impedance Tomography, Planar-Laser Induced Fluorescence, Sprays, Combustion, Gasoline Direct Injection