A linear engine generator with a compact double-acting free piston mechanism allows for full integration of the combustion engine and generator, which provides an alternative chemical-to-electrical energy converter with a higher volumetric power density for the electrification of automobiles, trains, and ships. This paper aims to analyse the performance of the integrated engine with alternative permanent magnet linear tubular electrical machine topologies using a coupled dynamic model in Siemens Simcenter software. Two types of alternative generator configurations are compared, namely long translator-short stator and short translator-long stator linear machines. The dynamic models of the linear engine and linear generator, validated with lab-scale prototypes, are applied to investigate the influence of alternative topologies of the generator on system performance. The coupled model will facilitate the early design phase and reveal the optimal match of the key parameters of the engine and generator. Then, experimental tests on an integrated compressor cylinder-generator prototype were successfully performed, and it is shown that this concept is feasible and electrical power and compressed working fluid, such as air, can be generated by this prototype.
: In this study, a linear synchronous machine is compared with a linear transverse flux machine. Both machines have been designed and built with the intention of being used as the power take off in a free piston engine. As both topologies are cylindrical, it is not possible to construct either using just flat laminations and so alternative methods are described and demonstrated. Despite the difference in topology and specification, the machines are compared on a common base in terms of rated force and suitability for use as a generator. Experience gained during the manufacture of two prototypes is described.
Free Piston Engine Linear Generator (FPELG) is a modern engine and promising power generation engine. It has many advantages compared to conventional engines such as less friction, few numbers of parts, and high thermal efficiency. The cycle-to-cycle variation one of the big challenges of the FPELG because it is influence on the stability and output power of the engine. Therefore, in this study, the effect of ignition time on combustion characteristics is investigated. The single-cylinder FPELG with spark ignition (SI) combustion type by using compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel type was set to run. LabVIEW is used to run the engine and control of input parameters. All experimental data
The free piston engine linear generator (FPELG) is a simple engine structure with few components, making it a promising power generation system. However, because the engine works without a crankshaft, the handling of the piston motion control (PMC) is the main challenge influencing the stability and performance of FPELGs. In this article, the optimal operating parameters of FPELG for maximising engine performance and reducing exhaust gas emissions were studied. Moreover, the influence of adding hydrogen (H2) to compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel on FPELG performance was investigated. The influence of operating parameters on in-cylinder pressure was also analysed. The single-piston FPELG fuelled by CNG blended with H2 was used to run the expe
... Show More