Assessment of modelling capability for numerical simulations for designing higher efficiency and lower emission systems

As the concern for the environment is increasing and the regulations around harmful emissions are becoming more strict, novel Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) concepts are becoming an absolute necessity in order to keep high thermal efficiencies while reducing the pollutant emissions. Moving towards more radical engine designs based on novel thermodynamic cycles comes also with the lack of knowledge and understanding of the physical phenomena involved in the combustion process. As experimental activities have time and cost implication, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is becoming a promising tool for virtual design of future energy systems. In this paper we demonstrate the role CFD can play in future engine design, using as
a basis the Split Cycle engine, a novel ICE concept based on separating the compression and the combustion stages. A prototype, under development by Ricardo I innovation, offers a potential breakthrough reducing both CO2 emissions and the fuel consumption. The CFD analysis presented here focuses on the injection strategy of such engine, as it differs from conventional Diesel engines and potentially holds the key of the performances of this device.