Tech Briefs
Renault and Delphi Automotive develop diesel-injection system
 Renault and Delphi Automotive have developed a common-rail, diesel-injection system for use on a new 1.5 dCi engine. |
Renault will increase its diesel engine portfolio by the summer, adding a new 1.5 dCi engine that uses a new common-rail, diesel-injection system developed in partnership with Delphi Automotive Systems. This new engine will result in improvements in performance and reduced environmental impact, with power outputs ranging from 48 to 57 kW (65 to 80 hp), and a reduction in CO2 emissions.
The diesel market continues to grow in Europe where emphasis is placed on the environment and meeting worldwide government regulations. The launch of Renault's new system will help Renault strengthen its engine portfolio and further position Delphi in the diesel-engine-management systems market.
Last year Renault introduced the 2.2 dCi 16-valve engine for the Espace, and made major improvements in the 89-kW (120-hp) 1.9 dCi engine for the Laguna II. Renault is continuing development of its turbodiesel engine range. With a capacity of 1.6 L, the 1.5 dCi will be equipped with Delphi's Multec DCR 1400 common-rail diesel system.
"We are proud to be partnering with Renault to develop advanced diesel systems," said Guy C. Hachey, President of Delphi's Energy & Chassis division. "Today, Delphi's complete gas- and diesel-engine management capabilities position us to meet and exceed our customers needs for performance, fuel economy, and reduced emissions. When we acquired the diesel-fuel-injection business in 2000, it enabled us to expand our technological expertise and enter into a new arena of engine management."
While the unusual spherical shape of its rail is well adapted to small and compact engines, the advantage of the system derives from its injectors and advanced control of the injection process. The injectors have a balanced valve - independent of pressure - allowing the use of an ultra-compact, fast-acting solenoid that enables precision in injection quantity and timing. At the same time, a self-regulating Accelerometer Pilot Control (APC) function accurately monitors each injector to ensure an optimized combustion throughout the engine life.
Renault and Delphi's advanced techniques, which are unlike other common-rail systems currently on the market, also result in improvement in diesel-engine-noise levels. Ease of driving will likewise be improved with the torque curves optimized for passing response. Two versions of the 1.5 dCi engine are under development, a 48-kW (65-hp) engine with 160 N•m (118 lb•ft) and another offering 57 kW (80 hp) and 185 N•m (136 lb•ft).
The new engine also contributes to Renault's policy of offering cars with low CO2 emissions. In a Clio-type vehicle, it allows fuel consumption under 4.5 L/100 km to be achieved in the mixed European cycle, thus reducing CO2 emissions.
The development of this 1.5 dCi engine will be completed this spring.
- Jean L. Broge
Cummins four-cylinder ISB engine
 The new four-cylinder ISB engine from Cummins features several technological improvements, including a high-pressure, common-rail fuel system; full-authority electronics; a 16-valve cylinder head; and vertically centered injectors. |
Engineers from Cummins Inc. have taken the technological advancements and performance from the company's popular six-cylinder ISB engine and combined them with the reliability of the B3.9 engine to develop a four-cylinder ISB engine for the light- and medium-duty truck market. The new ISB is Cummins' first fully electronic four-cylinder medium-duty engine. It will be available initially only for walk-in van chassis.
According to the company, the 16-valve design is capable of demonstrating up to 127 kW (170 hp) with improved fuel economy. "The new four-cylinder ISB is the next step in the continuing evolution of diesel engines and builds on the strong reputations of the B3.9 and six-cylinder ISB engines," said Maggie Mayall, Medium-duty Product Manager at Cummins. In independent field tests conducted prior to the October launch of the new ISB engine, Cummins quoted customers as having noticed a marked increase in fuel economy. For example, fleets that have switched from the Cummins B3.9 engine have seen a 20-30% increase in fuel efficiency.
The new engine block features a rear-mounted gear housing, fuel pump, and accessory drive, which contribute to reduced running noise. The rear-mounting increases the accessory drive capability 75% vs. a front geartrain to 244 N•m (180 lb•ft). The ISB's cast-iron block features a thicker head deck and deeper head bolt bosses that improve block stability and durability, allowing for higher injection pressures. Integrated oil and coolant passages combine with straight-thread O-ring metric fittings to ensure lead-free operation. The unitized design also helps reduce noise levels by 3-4 dB(A), which Cummins claims makes the four-cylinder ISB sound about 50% quieter than its predecessor.
"We have brought electronics, 16 valves, centered injection, and advanced fuel systems to the walk-in van market with an engine that offers better fuel economy, performance, reliability, and durability," Mayall said.
The engine's full-authority electronic controls allow users to easily perform diagnostic, prognostic, and maintenance monitoring functions. ISB electronics are compatible with all Cummins engine-management reporting software, including INFORM and INSPEC as well as the in-cab engine monitoring software, RoadRelay 4.
- Jean L. Broge
