Investigation and Demonstration of a Small Intermittent Internal Combustion Heavy-Fueled Engine

Since 2004, the Department of Defense (DoD) has had the stated goal of transitioning all engine systems to use a single fuel — JP-8. This “one fuel forward” initiative simplifies logistical issues, improves safety, and increases combat effectiveness. To improve technologies required to run Intermittent Internal Combustion (IIC) engines on lower volatility heavy fuels, the US Army Vehicle Technology Directorate (VTD) acquired and tested a small IIC engine and developed procedures allowing the operation of this engine on JP-8. The program consisted of engine simulation, engine testing and flight demonstration. Several strategies are presented to enhance the engine operation based on thermal management techniques and fuel injection.