Study of the Impact of Combustion Parameters on Cylinder-to-Cylinder Working Uniformity in Oilfield Tail Gas Engines

As a promising alternative fuel, oilfield tail gas can reduce environmental pollution while achieving secondary utilization. Studying the cylinder-to-cylinder working uniformity is crucial for evaluating the feasibility of such oilfield tail gas as a source of engine fuel. This study establishes a single-bank six-cylinder model based on GT-POWER using a 12V190 V-type natural gas generator engine with a symmetrical structure. The effects of air–fuel ratio (λ), fuel injection timing (FIT), and ignition advance angle (IAA) on cylinder-to-cylinder working uniformity are analyzed through in-cylinder pressure fluctuation rate, using the univariate method. Base values: λ = 1.0, FIT = 270° crank angle before top dead center (° CA BTDC), IAA = 10° CA BTDC. Tested values: λ = 1.0, 1.3, 1.6, 2.2; FIT = 260, 270, 280° CA BTDC; and IAA = 10, 8, 6° CA BTDC. Results show that the minimum fluctuation rate occurs at λ = 1.0, FIT = 260° CA BTDC, IAA = 10° CA BTDC. Deviating from this optimal condition—by increasing λ, retarding FIT, or advancing IAA—increases fluctuation rate, indicating poorer uniformity. Thus, optimal cylinder-to-cylinder working uniformity is achieved at these specific conditions. This research provides a theoretical basis and technical reference for the efficient secondary utilization of oilfield tail gas in power-generation engines.