Investigation of the effects on engine performance and emissions of biodiesel produced from safflower oil by microwave heating

In this study, biodiesel was produced from safflower oil by transesterification reaction by modifying a home type microwave. Engine performance and emission tests were performed using D100 (100% diesel fuel) and B15 (85% diesel fuel + 15% biodiesel). Combustion analysis was performed at 1800 rpm engine speed where maximum torque was obtained. At 1800 rpm engine speed, engine torque was obtained 2.66% lower than diesel fuel with B15 fuel. An average of 9.28% increase in specific fuel consumption was obtained with B15 fuel compared to diesel fuel. Maximum effective efficiency with diesel and B15 fuels was determined as 26.86% and 26.27%, respectively. Cylinder pressure and heat distribution values were obtained less for B15 fuel compared to diesel fuel. A decrease in ignition delay time and an increase in combustion time were observed with B15 fuel compared to diesel fuel. The maximum in-cylinder pressure increase rate was determined as 7.118 and 6.313 bar/CA with diesel and B15 fuels, respectively. CO and HC emissions were obtained lower with the use of B15 fuel compared to diesel fuel.