With the first demonstration of a dual-fuel advanced combustion cycle in a modified multi- cylinder engine, researchers have moved closer to delivering on the promise of increased fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers started with a 2007 General Motors 1.9-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, which they modified for reactivity controlled compression ignition operation. The engine was configured to have two separate fuel systems the original direct-injection diesel fuel system plus a port fuel injection system for gasoline-like fuels. In addition to improved efficiency and lower nitrogen oxide and soot emissions, this combustion mode features greater fuel flexibility when compared to other advanced combustion. This ORNL milestone, made possible with the help of the University of Wisconsin, bridges the gap between fundamental and applied research, said Scott Curran of ORNL's Fuels Engines and Emissions group.
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