Evolution, Trends and Applications of Endoscopy in Internal Combustion Engines

Avinash Kumar Agarwal; Akhilendra Pratap Singh; Anuj Agarwal

Authors

Avinash Kumar Agarwal Engine Research Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur-208016, India
Akhilendra Pratap Singh Engine Research Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur-208016, India
Anuj Agarwal Engine Research Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur-208016, India

Keywords:

Endoscopy, Combustion visualization, Fuel spray, Temperature distribution, Soot distribution

Abstract

Due to increasing number of alternative fuels and strict emission norms globally, extensive experimental investigations are being conducted for understanding and improving fuel sprays and combustion of internal combustion (IC) engines. Main objective of this study is to assess the effect of advanced fuel injection equipment (FIE) and in-cylinder processes to improve efficiency and reduce pollutant emissions, in addition to improved understanding of combustion and pollutant formation mechanisms. In order to gain understanding of actual combustion processes and spray characteristics in production grade engines, researchers have developed various optical diagnostic techniques. Endoscopic optical visualization technique is a very effective and relatively cheaper but very challenging technique with great potential amongst them. This paper presents a summary of evolution of endoscopic optical visualization technique for analyzing spray and combustion characteristics in IC engines, current trends in engine endoscopy and some application case studies. This endoscopic technique has great scope in research and development activities for automotive industry.