Numerical analysis shows hydrogen enrichment improves combustion performance in natural gas engines, suggesting operational adjustments at high percentages.
Key Points
This study aims to explore how adding hydrogen to natural gas affects combustion characteristics and emissions in engines.
Numerically investigated combustion using CFD simulations in Ansys Forte.
Analyzed a Kubota WG1605-N-E3 engine with hydrogen blending ratios of 0% to 60% by volume under constant equivalence ratio (ϕ = 1.1).
Measured indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP) and emissions during varying hydrogen fractions.
Hydrogen enrichment up to 50% improved IMEP (1.06 MPa) and thermal efficiency (20.5%).
CO and CO2 emissions decreased with higher hydrogen fractions due to better oxidation.
NOx emissions decreased significantly at hydrogen fractions above 50% due to thermal effects.