Experimental & Simulation Data for a Virtual Multi-Cylinder Engine for Pre-mixed Hydrogen Combustion

Job description

Transport is at the core of modern society. Imagine using your expertise to shape sustainable transport and infrastructure solutions for the future? If you seek to make a difference on a global scale, working with next-gen technologies and the sharpest collaborative teams, then we could be a perfect match. 

Master thesis proposal 

Background

Heavy-duty road transport is undergoing a significant transition toward CO2 neutrality. To support this transition, advanced engine modeling and simulation techniques are crucial for developing and optimizing new powertrain solutions efficiently and cost-effectively. Hydrogen combustion, particularly pre-mixed hydrogen combustion, is emerging as a promising technology in this field.

About Us

At Volvo Powertrain Strategic Development, we shape technology strategies and inform business decisions for new powertrain solutions. We actively explore emerging powertrain technologies, regulatory shifts, and future societal needs to prepare a powertrain roadmap. Furthermore, we develop technology solutions that support the transition from concept to production, enabling the next generation of sustainable transport solutions.

Thesis Background

The development of new engine concepts, especially those involving pre-mixed hydrogen combustion, is a complex and resource-intensive process. Single-cylinder engine (SCE) tests, combined with advanced 0D/1D simulations, offer an efficient way to evaluate future engine concepts before investing in full-scale prototypes. However, there's still a gap between experimental data and simulation models that, if bridged, could significantly enhance our predictive capabilities for hydrogen-fueled engines.

This thesis aims to develop a novel "Virtual Multi-Cylinder Engine" approach by creating a symbiotic exchange between experimental SCE data and simulation models, with a specific focus on pre-mixed hydrogen combustion. The core idea is to feed near real-time pressure trace data from a running single-cylinder engine into a 0D/1D simulation model. This data will be used to perform a three-pressure analysis, generating an accurate burn rate profile. This burn rate will then be incorporated into a full-scale engine model, providing realistic boundary conditions for simulating the performance of various pre-mixed hydrogen engine concepts.

Content

Initially, a literature study should be conducted to gain an understanding of the target domain, including single-cylinder engine testing, 0D/1D modeling, three-pressure analysis techniques, and the specifics of pre-mixed hydrogen combustion. The next step is to evaluate the existing methodology for integrating experimental data from a running single-cylinder engine with simulation models, tailored for hydrogen combustion. This will involve:

1.    Evaluating and learning a method to feed actual pressure trace data from a running single-cylinder engine to a simulation model, considering the unique characteristics of hydrogen combustion.
2.    Implementing a three-pressure analysis on a single-cylinder 0D/1D model to generate a burn rate for pre-mixed hydrogen combustion.
3.    Creating or evaluating existing full-scale engine model that uses the generated burn rate to provide correct boundary conditions for the single-cylinder hydrogen engine.
4.    Comparing the accuracy of the integrated setup in relation to a simulation model generating the boundary conditions with existing combustion model and no experimental data input, specifically for pre-mixed hydrogen combustion.

The final phase of the thesis will involve demonstrating the effectiveness of the "Virtual Multi-Cylinder Engine" approach for pre-mixed hydrogen combustion and exploring its potential for integration as a standardized measurement setup in hydrogen engine development activities.

Research Depth

The research will focus on investigating the accuracy of exchange setup in relation to directly using boundary conditions from a simulation model with an integrated combustion model for pre-mixed hydrogen combustion.

1.    Methods of ensuring data exchange – "batch" data vs "streamed" data, considering the rapid combustion characteristics of hydrogen.
2.    Sensitivity analysis on cycle-to-cycle variation of experimental data on the resulting output of boundary conditions to determine importance, particularly relevant for hydrogen combustion.
3.    Analysis of the effectiveness of the data exchange in improving the resulting output – "fingerprint" measurement of a virtual engine concept for various operating conditions specific to pre-mixed hydrogen combustion.
4.    Given favorable project progression - Evaluation of the system's potential for reducing development time and costs in hydrogen engine concept exploration.
5.    Investigation of potential limitations and areas for further improvement in the integrated experimental-simulation approach for pre-mixed hydrogen combustion.

This research aims to bridge the gap between experimental testing and simulation, enabling more accurate and efficient evaluation of new hydrogen engine concepts without the need for full prototype development.
 
Suitable Background

We are looking for candidates in the final year of their Master's studies, preferably from faculties of Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, and Chemical Engineering. An interest in automotive engineering, internal combustion engines (particularly hydrogen engines), and simulation techniques is highly valued. Experience or interest in data processing, control systems, or engine modeling will also be beneficial.

Supervision and examination

Powertrain Strategic Development, GTT, Volvo Group University ...

Thesis Level: Master

Language: English

Starting date: January 2025

Number of students: 2

Physical location: Volvo Lundby (CampX) or Malmö (Volvo Powertrain)

Contact:
Djordje Purkovic, djordje.purkovic@volvo.com
Erik Svensson, erik.svensson@volvo.com

We value your data privacy and therefore do not accept applications via mail. 

We look forward to your application, the last day to apply is the 30th of November. 

 

Who we are and what we believe in 
Our focus on Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity allows each of us the opportunity to bring our full authentic self to work and thrive by providing a safe and supportive environment, free of harassment and discrimination. We are committed to removing the barriers to entry, which is why we ask that even if you feel you may not meet every qualification on the job description, please apply and let us decide.

 

Applying to this job offers you the opportunity to join Volvo Group. Every day, across the globe, our trucks, buses, engines, construction equipment, financial services, and solutions make modern life possible. We are almost 100,000 people empowered to shape the future landscape of efficient, safe and sustainable transport solutions. Fulfilling our mission creates countless career opportunities for talents with sharp minds and passion across the group’s leading brands and entities. 

 

Group Trucks Technology are seeking talents to help design sustainable transportation solutions for the future. As part of our team, you’ll help us by engineering exciting next-gen technologies and contribute to projects that determine new, sustainable solutions. Bring your love of developing systems, working collaboratively, and your advanced skills to a place where you can make an impact. Join our design shift that leaves society in good shape for the next generation.

Job Category:  Technology Engineering

Organization:  Group Trucks Technology

Travel Required:  No Travel Required

Requisition ID:  14854