The two reference fuels used for cetane rating area)cetane and iso-oct...
The two reference fuels used for cetane rating are cetane and n-heptane. Cetane is a hydrocarbon compound with a chemical formula of C16H34, while n-heptane has a chemical formula of C7H16. These two fuels are selected as reference fuels because they have different cetane numbers, which are used to measure the ignition quality of diesel fuels.
1. Cetane:
- Cetane is a straight-chain hydrocarbon that is representative of diesel fuel.
- It has a high cetane number, typically around 100, which indicates excellent ignition quality.
- A fuel with a high cetane number will ignite easily and smoothly, resulting in a shorter ignition delay and better combustion.
- Cetane is used as a reference fuel to determine the cetane number of other diesel fuels. It is assigned a cetane number of 100.
2. n-Heptane:
- n-Heptane is a straight-chain hydrocarbon that is representative of gasoline.
- It has a low cetane number, typically around 0, which indicates poor ignition quality.
- A fuel with a low cetane number will have a longer ignition delay and may result in knocking or incomplete combustion in a diesel engine.
- n-Heptane is used as a reference fuel to determine the cetane number of diesel fuels. It is assigned a cetane number of 0.
Why these fuels are used:
- Cetane and n-heptane represent the extremes of diesel fuel and gasoline in terms of ignition quality.
- By comparing the ignition characteristics of a diesel fuel to these two reference fuels, the cetane number can be determined.
- The cetane number is an important parameter in diesel fuel quality control as it affects engine performance, emissions, and combustion efficiency.
- The cetane rating allows diesel fuel manufacturers to optimize their fuel formulations to meet industry standards and ensure proper engine operation.
In summary, cetane and n-heptane are selected as reference fuels for cetane rating because they represent the extremes of diesel fuel and gasoline in terms of ignition quality. By comparing a diesel fuel to these reference fuels, its cetane number can be determined, which is crucial for engine performance and emissions control.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed Mechanical Engineering study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in Mechanical Engineering.