Alternative Fuels for a Single Cylinder Direct Injection Diesel Engine

This paper presents the results of investigations carried out on a single cylinder, direct injection, water cooled diesel engine operating on diesel, straight vegetable oils (Thumba oil and Neem) and 20% biodiesel blend of Thumba oil. The experiment covered a range of loads. Results show that Thumba oil can be used as an alternative fuel with better performance and lower emissions compared to Neem oil. The most significant conclusion is that 20% biodiesel blend of Thumba oil shows maximum brake power, reduced BSFC, emissions, smoke Opacity and NOx than straight vegetable oils.