Thermal effects on the diesel injector performance through adiabatic 1D modelling. Part II: Model validation, results of the simulations and discussion

Abstract In this paper, a one-dimensional computational model of the flow in a common-rail injector is used to compute local variations of fuel temperature (including the temperature change produced upon expansion across the nozzle) and analyse their effect on injector dynamics. These variations are accounted through the adiabatic flow hypothesis, assessed in a first part of the paper where the model features are also described. They imply variations in the fuel properties and the flow regime established across the injector internal restrictions driving the solenoid valve. An extensive validation of the model against experimental results is presented for a wide range of conditions. Multiple injection strategies are also explored, analysing the influence of the inlet fuel temperature and its variations on the mass injected by successive injections and the critical dwell time below which they cannot be separated. Results show significant changes in fuel temperature across some injector restrictions. These changes are greater the higher the rail pressure and lower the fuel temperature at the injector inlet. In the case of the flow across nozzle orifices, the fuel can be either heated or subcooled depending on the operating conditions, the heating being especially relevant for cold-start-like fuel temperatures at the inlet. Thermal effects also influence the injection rate and duration. This influence on injector dynamics is particularly accused in the injector of study due to its ballistic nature. In this regard, the time needed to effectively separate two successive injections is greater the higher the fuel temperature and the injection pressure.