Alternative engines

Predictive maintenance of internal combustion and internal combustion engines is based on multichannel processing of in-cylinder pressure signals, high and low frequency vibrations, ultrasound, temperature and ignition voltages.

The synchronization of measurements is performed with an encoder or tachometer, which serves as a piston position reference, both in compression ignition Diesel engines and in GAS engines with electric spark ignition.

From the closed P-V curve, the indicated or thermodynamic power of each engine cylinder (IHP) is calculated, and the equilibrium condition at peak firing pressures (PFP) can also be established.

From the open pressure curve correlated with the other mechanical variables can be detected:

• Lean fuel injection
• Leaking valves and rings
• Wear on valve driveline elements
• Wear and scratches on liners
• Clearances in connecting rod bushings
• Crankshaft bearing damage
• Turbocharger Problems
• Water and oil pump problems
• Structural vibrations in bedplates and foundations
• Defects in spark plugs and their primary or secondary ignition circuits

The predictive diagnosis of the functional and mechanical condition of an internal combustion engine is based on the analysis of the in-cylinder pressure curve (P-V ), according to the following procedure:

• Cylinder pressure measurement, synchronized with crankshaft position via encoder or dead center reference tachometer
• Measurement of mechanical variables synchronized on the pressure pattern (vibration, ultrasound, temperature).
• Experimental calculation of indicated power (IHP) with statistical evaluation of dispersion and unbalance of firing pressures (PFP), and analysis of stress in connecting rods by composition of the experimental static load (pressure) and the theoretical dynamic load (inertia of the reciprocating train).
• Identification of combustion and ignition problems, dynamic valve settings and mechanical impacts of the reciprocating train and main bearings.
• Functional and mechanical condition report with palliative recommendations.
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