Cooling system model validation of a CNG engine for Off-Road applications

The project target is to design and validate the cooling system model of a CNG engine for Off Road applications, and to perform fluid dynamic and thermal simulations for predicting the system performances at different engine operating conditions. The model, created using a unidimensional approach, is designed in order to be used either in the prototyping phase, to test new technical solutions and design proposals, or to predict the cooling system behavior within the customer vehicle. An experimental activity at the engine test bench has been carried out to provide the target data for the model calibration and to compare the simulations results with the target measured quantities. The validation criteria have been set in order to reproduce the cooling system performances with a maximum error tolerance of 10 %. The aim of the thesis is to offer a fast and valid support for the engine cooling system design and validation activities, and to create a flexible tool able to be applied to different engines configurations and at different design phases. The objective is to promote the cost savings reducing the need of experimental activities at the test bench.