Virtual development tools can provide a valuable contribution on the path to sustainable mobility. In the development process of new concepts for combustion engines, 3D-CFD simulations play a special role.
The focus is not only to visualise the internal flow fields, but also to understand how individual influences affect engine performance, thermal efficiency and emission behaviour. Our virtual engine approach provides a comprehensive understanding of these factors to accelerate and optimise development processes.
The virtual investigations are carried out with the fast-response tool QuickSim, a self-developed 3D-CFD software, in which the computational domain contains the entire engine system and thus represents it virtually. With QuickSim’s specially adapted models, it is possible to simulate multiple engine cycles by using tested injection models and detailed reaction chemistry for the combustion.
Current developments projects cover areas from scientific research to motorsport. We are focusing in particular on the present development topics: Alternative fuels, knock resistance, water injection, post-oxidation, innovative combustion concepts, etc.
For this purpose, we can measure various fuel compositions and sprays in our in-house PDA laboratory to validate and continuously improve our simulation models. In addition to conventional fuels and eFuels, gases such as hydrogen and methane also play a major role in future development projects. Especially in combination with innovative combustion concepts, e.g. through the use of pre-chamber ignition, the potentials of combustion can be identified quickly and efficiently.