Ultra Compact, Lightweight, Fast Response Cetane Sensor for Heavy Fuels

ABSTRACT: Precision Combustion, Inc. (PCI) proposes to develop a novel, ultra-compact cetane sensor to analyze fuels in real time. The sensor will be capable of determining the cetane number of logistic fuels used for small remote piloted aircraft engines. In Phase I, PCI will perform testing with different fuels in a breadboard environment to demonstrate the concept. The concept is based on a novel modification and miniaturization of well-established cetane measurement techniques. In addition, validation of the sensor and developing a path for packaging and integrating with the engine will be performed at TRL 4. In Phase II, PCI will further develop and demonstrate a prototype cetane sensor package including all electronics and balance of plant to TRL 6. The Phase II prototype will be a standalone component capable of determining Cetane number and displaying it on a readout or communicated directly to the Remotely Piloted Aircraft Engine Control Unit. BENEFIT: The cetane sensor technology will be for Air Force RPA engine applications to enable use of various fuels in RPA engines. Follow-on military markets to be explored include Army, Navy and Marine Corps unmanned system engine applications, tactical genset engines and truck engines. Success in military markets will lead to cost reductions as volume increases, thus enabling penetration of commercial markets such as auto and truck engines.