Kenton R. Kaufman

Diesel engine evaluation of a nonionic sunflower oil-aqueous ethanol microemulsion

A nonionic sunflower oil-aqueous ethanol microemulsion was formulated, characterized and evaluated as a fuel in a direct injection, turbocharged, intercooled, 4-cylinder Allis-Chalmers diesel engine during a 200 hr EMA cycle laboratory screening endurance test. Differences in engine operation between a baseline Phillips 2D reference fuel and the experimental fuel were observed. The major problem experienced while operating with the microemulsion was an incomplete combustion process at low-load engine operation. Significant lubricating oil dilution was observed initially, followed by an abnormal increase in the viscosity of the lubricative oil. Heavier carbon residue on the piston lands, in the piston ring grooves and in the intake ports was noted. In addition, premature injection-nozzle deterioration (sticking of the needle) was experienced. At present, the sunflower oil-aqueous ethanol microemulsion studied cannot be recommended for long-term use in a direct-injection diesel engine, but further modifications in formulation may produce acceptable sunflower oil microemulsions as alternative diesel fuels.

Laboratory endurance test of a sunflower oil blend in a diesel engine

The effects of using a 25/75 blend (v/v) of alkali refined sunflower oil and diesel fuel in a direct-injection diesel engine were compared to a baseline test with diesel fuel. There were no significant problems with engine operation during the baseline test. However, problems were experienced while using the blended fuel. The major problems were (a) abnormal buildup on the injection nozzle-tips, (b) injector needle sticking, (c) secondary injection, (d) carbon buildup in the intake ports, (e) carbon deposits on the exhaust valve stems, (f) carbon filling of the compression ring grooves, and (g) abnormal lacquer and varnish buildup on the third piston land. The 25.75 blend cannot be recommended for long-term use in a direct-injection engine.

Sunflower methyl esters for direct injected diesel engines

ABSTRACT A methyl ester of sunflower oil was durability tested in direct injected, turbocharged and intercooled diesel engine. A test cycle recommended by the Alternate Fuels Committee of the Engine Manufacturers Association was used. The results are compared to a baseline test using diesel fuel. Based on the results, the methyl ester fuel successfully completed the 200-hour durability test. Field tests and engine manufacturers evaluations are needed to further quantify the long term effect of the fuel on engine durability.

Field endurance test of diesel engines fueled with sunflower oil/diesel fuel blends

Four John Deere and two J.I. Case tractors were fueled with 25% or 50% blends of alkali-refined, winterized sunflower oil and No. 2 diesel fuel while in farm service. All engines were turbocharged, direct injection diesel engines and each was operated for approximately 1000 hours. No power losses were detected during the test period. However, one engine experienced camshaft/valve train failure while in service. Engine deposits were measured according to the CRC Diesel Engine Rating system after the test period was completed. Statistical analysis revealed heavier deposits in most areas of the combustion chamber of the three engines fueled with the 50% sunflower oil/50% No. 2 diesel fuel blend. No detrimental engine deposits due to differences in engine size were observed. No injector coking problems or ring sticking problems were encountered. Bearing wear was normal.

Thermal Comfort in an Air-Conditioned Tractor Cab

ABSTRACT THERMAL comfort predicted by Fangers equation for 16 tractor cab occupants is presented and dis-cussed. Results show that Fangers equation for Pre-dicted Mean Vote does predict comfort in a tractor cab for summer conditons. Also, a persons idea of comfort does not change significantly after the first half hour in the tractor cab. Finally, cab temperature alone is not an adequate indicator of comfort.