• Diesel engines
• Gasoline engines
• Natural gas engines
• Calibration

Diesel engines

Diesel engines are extremely well positioned in terms of consumption but increasingly stringent pollution control standards tend to place them at a disadvantage when it comes to emissions.
 
IFP’s research focuses on controlling diesel-specific pollutants (particles, NOx and, to a lesser extent, HC and CO).

Reducing pollutants at source

This approach aims to reduce pollutant levels at source, within the combustion chamber. Using its knowledge in the field of combustion systems, IFP has developed the HCCI (Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition) combustion method, which recycles high levels of burned gases. This technique is suitable for car applications as well as for heavy duty vehicles.
 
As part of the Two Mode Engine (TOM) project supported by the ANR (French National Research Agency), realized in partnership with the Powertrain unit of the car manufacturer, Volvo, IFP researchers have developed a combustion system that is capable of operating in HCCI mode over a broad range, thereby cutting NOx emissions by more than 90%.

For further information on IFP Low NOx Diesel demonstrator

After-treatment of engine emissions

In this area, IFP is continuing to work with CTI (Céramiques Techniques et Industrielles) with the aim of achieving industrial validation of a low-cost particulate filter.

Developing capture techniques

Development and evaluation work is being carried out on a number of technologies, including NOx traps, 4-way catalysis and selective catalytic reduction of NOx (SCR), etc.
 
Achieving consistent reductions in the fuel consumption of diesel engines remains an important goal, particularly as there is still room for improvement in this area. In partnership with PSA Peugeot Citroën and Renault, IFP is continuing its research into significant downsizing associated with:

• high supercharging,
• injection systems capable of delivering pressures of 2,500 bars.

Finally, IFP has developed specific expertise for the analysis and improvement of cold starts at very low temperatures (-30°C). This poses problems due to a significant reduction in the compression ratios of modern diesel engines.

Renault VelSatis – Low NOx Diesel vehicle

VDH is a prototype vehicle developed by IFP in partnership with Faurecia and Valeo using HCCI (Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition) combustion. Very low NOx emission levels can be achieved without dedicated after treatment system owing to the low combustion temperature. Specific combustion chamber, sophisticated air circuit allowing very high exhaust gas recirculation rates and model-based engine control have been the key features to successfully achieve the project targets.

Download the datasheet: Low pollutant emissions diesel vehicle - VDH (PDF - 80 Ko)

Gasoline engines

The main problem associated with gasoline engines is still the need to reduce their fuel consumption. IFP’s research therefore has a strong focus on:

• downsizing,
• approaches related to combustion methods and cylinder management.

Validating the downsizing concept

In partnership with Faurecia Système d'Echappement and Honeywell Turbo Technologies and with the contribution of Renault, a demonstration vehicle based on a Renault VelSatis has been produced to validate IFP’s turbocharging concept, combined with direct injection and optimized recovery of residual burned gases. Compared to a conventional gasoline engine, this demonstrator vehicle offers a 20% reduction in CO₂ emissions over a standardized cycle.

Developing cylinder deactivation

IFP has also developed and patented an innovative cylinder deactivation approach which could potentially lead to very significant fuel savings.

Optimizing pollution abatement

Although, in theory, gasoline engines pose fewer pollution abatement problems, some operating modes still offer significant room for improvement. This is particularly the case for cold-start phases, which are responsible for most of the emissions over a cycle. These elements are being closely examined by the GSM, which is conducting research into a range of subjects, including exhaust line air injection and hydrocarbon traps, etc.
 
>> For further information: "Reducing the consumption of gasoline vehicles - IFP is developing a new prototype based on the Renault Velsatis" (Press release, 29 April 2008)
 

Natural gas engines

IFP also carries out a significant amount of research into the development and adaptation of natural gas engines. The objective is to combine reductions in CO₂ emissions derived from the low carbon content of this fuel with the savings which could potentially be achieved through engine optimization (downsizing, operating without enrichment, low knock sensitivity, etc.).
 
The development of a small urban vehicle prototype as part of the European Clever project and in partnership with BMW provides a good example of this approach. This vehicle achieves around 60 g/km of CO₂ emissions over a standardized cycle.

Calibration

To support these technological developments, IFP has expanded its expertise and resources in the field of calibration. Its research has resulted, in particular, in the validation of all the tools and methodologies that are required for this essential development phase, including:

• automation of test benches,
• experimental design,
• creation and optimization of maps, etc.

In partnership with D2T, IFP has also contributed to the development of the new Morphée 2 test bench supervision software package, which was launched on the market at the start of 2007.

+ Industrial development > IFP's offer in engines