Velocity of flame propagation in the SI engine is maximum for a fuel-a...
Ans. (a) When the mixture is nearly 10% richer than stoichiometric (fuel-air ratio = 0.08 i.e. air-fuel ratio 12.5:1) the velocity of flame propagation is maximum and ignition lag of the end gas is minimum.
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Velocity of flame propagation in the SI engine is maximum for a fuel-a...
Flame Propagation in SI Engines
Flame propagation is the process of combustion that takes place in the combustion chamber of a spark ignition engine. It is an important phenomenon that determines the efficiency of the engine. The velocity of flame propagation is a critical factor that affects the performance of the engine.
Factors Affecting Flame Propagation
Several factors affect the velocity of flame propagation in a spark ignition engine. These include:
1. Fuel-Air Ratio: The fuel-air ratio is the ratio of fuel to air in the combustion chamber. It is a critical factor that affects flame propagation.
2. Ignition Timing: The ignition timing is the time at which the spark plug ignites the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber. It affects the velocity of flame propagation.
3. Engine Speed: The engine speed is the speed at which the engine is running. It affects the velocity of flame propagation.
4. Cylinder Pressure: The cylinder pressure is the pressure inside the combustion chamber. It affects the velocity of flame propagation.
Effect of Fuel-Air Ratio on Flame Propagation
The fuel-air ratio is the most critical factor that affects the velocity of flame propagation in a spark ignition engine. The velocity of flame propagation is maximum for a fuel-air mixture that is 10% richer than stoichiometric.
Stoichiometric fuel-air ratio is the ideal ratio of fuel to air required for complete combustion of the fuel. It is determined based on the chemical composition of the fuel. For gasoline, the stoichiometric fuel-air ratio is around 14.7:1.
When the fuel-air mixture is richer than stoichiometric, the velocity of flame propagation is higher because there is more fuel available for combustion. However, if the mixture is too rich, there will be insufficient oxygen for complete combustion, resulting in the formation of unburned hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide.
When the fuel-air mixture is leaner than stoichiometric, the velocity of flame propagation decreases because there is less fuel available for combustion. This can lead to incomplete combustion, resulting in the formation of nitrogen oxides.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the velocity of flame propagation in a spark ignition engine is affected by several factors, including fuel-air ratio, ignition timing, engine speed, and cylinder pressure. The fuel-air ratio is the most critical factor that affects flame propagation, with the velocity of flame propagation being maximum for a fuel-air mixture that is 10% richer than stoichiometric.
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