Enhanced performance of alcohol fueled engine during cold conditions
US4876989A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 10, 1988 |
| Grant date | Oct 31, 1989 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 10, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T10/30
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Apparatus and method are described for enhancing performance of an alcohol fueled engine during cold conditions, with such enhancement being particularly effected by generation of ether to assist cold operation including starting and/or to achieve reduced emissions during cold running. Dimethyl ether is generated by catalytic dehydration of vaporized methanol using a catalyst, preferably fluorinated alumina. Apparatus is disclosed for generating dimethyl ether on board as needed for immediate mixing with combustion air and methanol and/or for storage to enable later mixing of the dimethyl ether with combustion air and methanol to effect subsequent cold starts and/or cold running operations.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.