A fundamental investigation of microflow and atomisation processes in automotive injectors

Recent developments in automotive engines have been directed towards the reduction of engine emissions in order to minimise their effect on the environment. A major part of this advancement has been the improvement of new direct injection injectors providing improved atomisation and better control of the fuel delivery into the combustion chamber. To aid the injector design process, it is vital to understand the fundamental fluid dynamic processes controlling atomisation of high-pressure fluids in Direct Injection injectors. The research effort is directed towards the ability to link changes to the internal nozzle geometry and flow field to the external atomisation processes. This thesis presents a detailed laser diagnostic investigation of Diesel and gasoline direct injectors for automotive applications. [Continues.]