Calculating Exhaust Flow for Diesel Engines

In summary, the Ideal Gas Law gives a good approximation for exhaust flow when measured in mass per time. If you measure volume per time, the law should give a more accurate approximation. With that temp you can do all the flow calculations I assume.
  • #1
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Is there a way you can calculate exhaust flow using intake flow and exhaust temp? Maybe I would need fuel quantity as well. I just need a rough idea.. It's for on a diesel.
 
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  • #2
Mass is conserved, if you measure flow as mass per time it is easy.
If you measure volume per time: the ideal gas law should give a good approximation.
 
  • #3
I need more specifics. I'm slow..
 
  • #4
Your question was "is there a way", and my answer is an extended "yes", together with a rough idea how (ideal gas law).

If you have more questions, feel free to ask them.
 
  • #5
I mean up to this point I know how it all works before fuel is injected. I can get the engine flow and everything, but if you inject and ignite fuel, I don't know how to calculate how much heat is added and how much flow results or is the exhaust temp all that matters? Actually, when fuel is injected, the air is just heated way up so the only thing that changes is pressure right? Density stays the same since the moles of air in there is the same as before, they are just much hotter. Is all that right? So when the exhaust valve opens, temperature drops as pressure drops. But I guess the exhaust gas temp is an average temp and would work. Is this all correct?
 
  • #6
Exhaust temperature and added heat are related, and determined by the type of fuel, its amount and the initial temperature.
the air is just heated way up so the only thing that changes is pressure right?
The chemical composition changes, too.
Density stays the same since the moles of air in there is the same as before
The number of moles can change, but density has to stay the same (if the volume is constant).
But I guess the exhaust gas temp is an average temp and would work.
Average of what?
 
  • #7
Average temp of the gas flowing out of the engine. With that temp you can do all the flow calculations I assume. How does the number of moles change? I realize the diesel adds some but does it add a significant amount?
 
  • #8
Average temp of the gas flowing out of the engine.
Okay.
How does the number of moles change? I realize the diesel adds some but does it add a significant amount?

Diesel is mainly a source of carbon and hydrogen, and hydrogen reacts as ##O_2 + 4 H \to 2 H_2 O##, so you get an additional molecule. ##O_2 + C \to CO_2## does not change the number of molecules. Each diesel molecule gives several of those reactions before it is gone.
 
  • #9
Using the Ideal Gas Law I end up with the same CFM going into the engine as going out. However, putting in the different air temperatures mean the pressure going out is much higher. Does this sound right? I am assuming nothing about injected fuel, etc, just incoming 100F air and outgoing 1000F air. Comparing 1000F to 100F the only thing that changes is pressure. Just confirming here.
 
  • #10
Using the Ideal Gas Law I end up with the same CFM going into the engine as going out.
Should be a bit more due to the reaction I posted.
However, putting in the different air temperatures mean the pressure going out is much higher.
Right
 
  • #11
I didn't take fuel into account at all. I have enough trouble figuring out how to calculate it all without the fuel..
 

What is exhaust flow and why is it important for diesel engines?

Exhaust flow refers to the amount of exhaust gas that is expelled from a diesel engine. It is important because it directly affects the performance and efficiency of the engine.

How is exhaust flow calculated for diesel engines?

The exhaust flow for a diesel engine is typically calculated using the engine's displacement, speed, and air-to-fuel ratio. Other factors such as turbocharger efficiency, exhaust valve size, and exhaust valve timing may also be taken into account.

What is the purpose of calculating exhaust flow for diesel engines?

The main purpose of calculating exhaust flow for diesel engines is to ensure that the engine is operating at its optimal level of performance and efficiency. It also helps in determining the appropriate size of exhaust components such as pipes and mufflers.

What factors can affect the exhaust flow of a diesel engine?

The exhaust flow of a diesel engine can be affected by a variety of factors including engine size, speed, air-to-fuel ratio, and load. Other factors such as engine temperature, fuel quality, and exhaust system design can also play a role.

How can exhaust flow be improved for diesel engines?

There are several ways to improve exhaust flow for diesel engines, such as using a more efficient turbocharger, optimizing the air-to-fuel ratio, and upgrading the exhaust system components. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the engine and exhaust system can also help improve exhaust flow.

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