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University of Wisconsin, Madison
The Engine Research Center is devoted to fundamental research on spark ignition and diesel engines. It is one of several such programs in the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Department of Mechanical Engineering in which faculty members work together to secure outside funds for research projects, advise graduate students, report on their work to the profession, and develop courses and textbooks based on their activities.
The ERC's projects involve fluid mechanics, heat transfer, combustion, sprays, emissions and health effects, lubrication, and powertrain systems. Particular emphasis has been placed on the application of optical diagnostic methods to engines, and computational fluid modeling of engine processes. The center's facilities include an array of lasers, instrumentation, emissions measurement systems, single-cylinder engine test stands and computers, including an SGI 32 processor ORIGIN 2000. MS and PhD students who have graduated from this program hold leadership positions in industry and at major universities.
Professor Chris Rutland is the current Director of the ERC. Kevin Hoag is the Associate Director. Center activities involve more than 80 people, including graduate students and staff. Seven faculty members lead the activities of the center: Michael Corradini, Patrick Farrell, David Foster, Jaal Ghandhi, Rolf Reitz, and Chris Rutland. Emeritus professors Phil Myers and Gary Borman continue close involvement with the center.
The ERC's primary activities are as follows:
- Apply diagnostic and imaging methods to reciprocating engines, including phase Doppler particle analysis, laser Doppler velocimetry, particle image velocimetry and laser induced fluorescence to projects in combustion, emissions, heat transfer, spray diagnostics, ceramics and lubrication.
- Initiate research in upgraded computational fluid models for spray breakup, spray-wall impingement, engine heat transfer, combustion, turbulence, intake flows and emissions.
- Engage in diesel research funded by the Army and industry to increase power density, enhance air utilization, improve fuel economy and lower exhaust emissions.
- Conduct small-engine research projects funded by the Wisconsin Small Engine Consortium and the state of Wisconsin to assist industry in meeting emissions standards while improving fuel economy.
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