Analysis and Improvement of Air-Conditioning, Engine Cooling and Fuel Consumption of a High Performance Motor car

Abstract

Two projects considered during the early stages of this research are discussed briefly. These are concerned with engine cooling and exhaust pollution control by fluidised particles. The advantage of cooling an engine by this means is that the engine may be run at an optimum temperature and radiated noise attenuated. The high thermal conductivity and surface area of fluidised particles would result in improved after reaction in comparison with conventional exhaust thermal reactors and catalysts. The fuel consumption, engine cooling system and air-conditioning system of a Jaguar XJ6 motor car have been studied experimentally and analytically, and mathematical models used for their analysis. Recommendations are made for improvements to performance, cost, and fuel consumption. The efficiency required of a steplessly variable transmission to compete with the present system on the bases of acceleration and fuel economy has been calculated. As a result of a literature survey, fluids suitable for air-conditioning a motor car using an absorption cycle are recommended. The advantage of such a system is the reduction of fuel consumption by the removal of the compressor brake load from the engine. The feasibility and limitations of such a system are studied and providing the condenser air flow rate is increased and a reduced refrigeration load at idle is acceptable, such a system may be developed.