Brown Coal/Oil Mixtures as a Fuel for Diesel Engines - an Economic Analysis

The viability of using Victorian brown coal as a fuel extender in coal/oil mixture fuels is investigated for large, slow speed, stationary diesel engine applications. This investigation examines the economic implications of converting existing diesel engines for operation on coal/oil mixtures. Previously reported experimental thermodynamic performance data for a diesel engine operating on coal/oil mixtures have been used in this analysis. Engine brake thermal efficiency ratio is shown to be an important parameter in determining the economic viability of a new fuel.