Abstract
The use of a spark plug ion sensor to detect combustion timing in a homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) engine is a technique that could alleviate the need for pressure transducers, a more expensive alternative. One disadvantage of this approach is the difficulty in obtaining a strong signal at lower equivalence ratios. This article addresses and compares three ion sensing circuitries, namely a voltage follower, a notch filter circuit that removes the 60-Hz wall noise, and a notch filter whose output is coupled to a custom-built “integrator” circuit. The circuit optimizations are aimed at improving signal strength and reliability. The ion signal present in the combustion chamber is experimentally investigated in a 1.9-L Volkswagen engine, modified for HCCI operation and fueled with gasoline. Experiments are conducted across different intake temperatures, pressures, and equivalence ratios. It was found that the custom-built circuit provided the best ion signal strength and reliability.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 1294-1306 |
Number of pages | 13 |
Journal | Combustion science and technology |
Volume | 189 |
Issue number | 8 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Aug 3 2017 |
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:© 2017 Taylor & Francis.
Keywords
- Circuits
- Engine
- Homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI)
- Ion signal
- Sensor
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Chemistry
- General Chemical Engineering
- Fuel Technology
- Energy Engineering and Power Technology
- General Physics and Astronomy