Design Optimization of Exhaust Manifold's Divergence Characteristics in Enhancing High-End Power in 115cc SI Engine

Abstract

The exhaust system especially the exhaust manifold is an essential component that affects the performance of the Spark Ignition (SI) engine. The critical factor inside the exhaust system that affects the engine's performance is backpressure. Backpressure is known as the difference between maximum pressure in the exhaust system and atmospheric pressure. Based on previous studies, it was found that an un-optimal exhaust manifold's design leads to higher backpressure that reduces the performance and the fuel efficiency of the SI engine. This research aimed at enhancing the high-end power of the 115cc SI engine by optimizing the exhaust manifold's divergence characteristics through 1D engine analysis. S/N ratio analysis was used through Taguchi's method as a tool to conduct the design optimization. From the analysis, it was found that the optimal exhaust manifold's divergence configuration improved the mean brake power by 4.67% at high-end engine speed. It is expected that the optimal exhaust manifold's divergence configuration could also improve the engine's brake torque and fuel efficiency which could directly reduce the carbon footprint to the environment.