Computational fluid dynamics of a new high performance electro-hydrodynamic (EHD) fuel injector

Combustion engines require high pressure fuel injectors to provide a fine degree of atomisation for an efficient combustion cycle. Smaller engines (<100cc) utilise carburettors as they do not require high pressure but result in poor atomisation leading to an inefficient combustion cycle and high emissions. A solution to this problem is the development and implementation of an electrostatic fuel injector that aids and enhances the degree of atomisation, improving efficiency and reducing emissions. This report outlines a direct numerical simulation undertaken on the internal geometry of an electrostatic atomiser, tasked with improving the understanding of how turbulent flow is affected by electric charge.