When trying to model and understand an engine, accurate measurements of engine characteristics are necessary. After all, models of physical and chemical processes are only useful when they correlate well with correct measurements.
Four engine test benches are currently used for experimental work.
Single cylinder flex fuel engine
Experiments with alcohol, water and gasoline blends to study the effect on knock, efficiency, ... Can be used for both liquid and gaseous fuels.
Single cylinder flex fuel engine
Used for in-cylinder heat transfer. Can be used for both liquid and gaseous fuels.
Another new Volvo 4 cylinder engine is currently being instrumented. This SI engine is equipped with a high pressure pump for DI, a turbocharger, EGR and variable valve timing.
6DL36 ABC engine
This is the new 6 cylinder ABC-engine; engine development and tests are executed by ABC while UGent supports this through simulation and measurements on the GUCCI setup.
All engines are fully instrumented in terms of pressure, temperature and emissions measurements (except for PM).
We also have portable equipment for measuring on engines in the field. E.g. we cooperate closely with Anglo Belgian Corporation and are able to instrument their engines with temporary equipment. This supports the optimization of medium high speed marine engines.
