Engine Research Center(ERC), University of Wisconsin–Madison

"The engine is the ideal teaching tool – it features all of the elements of engineering: materials, fluids, thermodynamics, lubrication, chemistry, electronics, etc. The only thing missing is nuclear reaction." —Phil Myers ERC LogoThe Engine r reaction." —Phil Myers ERC LogoThe Engine Research Center (ERC) is a world-leading research group at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, dedicated to investigating the fundamental thermo-physical processes that control combustion performance and the pollutant emissions formed during combustion in internal combustion engines. The ERC is devoted to fundamental research on both Spark Ignited (SI) and Compression Ignited (CI) engines, including research through combined experimental studies (with optical and metal engine facilities), computational fluid dynamics (CFD) studies and optical sensing investigations. This work is supported by fundamental studies of fluid mechanics, heat transfer, combustion, sprays, emissions, laser diagnostics and after-treatment systems. Several areas in engine research have been pioneered and extensively investigated at the Center, including Reactivity Controlled Compression Ignition (RCCI) and Low Temperature Combustion (LTC) research. The ERC’s vision for research, articulated with the establishment of the Center of excellence for Advanced Propulsion in 1986, was that detailed computer modeling would play a crucial role in future engine development. A similar pathway for Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) was envisioned as that experienced with thermodynamic heat release models in the previous two decades. In addition, advanced diagnostics in engines and combustion experiments, both optical and sample measurement systems, would be necessary to provide increasingly detailed validation data for models, and for heuristically exploring combustion phenomena beyond the scope of modeling efforts. To maximize the synergy of these two activities they were to be done in concert at the same physical location. Construction of the Engineering Research Building (ERB) Construction of the Engineering Research Building (ERB) The ERC has been highly successful in meeting this vision and has pioneered the integration of detailed engine combustion phenomena into CFD codes, validating these models with engine data, and disseminating the models to every major engine industry in the US. The current trend of using CFD as a development tool for today’s engines is practiced by every major engine industry in the world. ERC activities laid some of the ground work for this development. University-based research allows the pursuit of longer-range research perspectives, and the production of highly trained manpower, working at the forefront of engine technology. With the help of the DOD and industry funding, the ERC has evolved into a National resource in the areas of internal combustion engine processes and power systems, capable of providing expert advice and counsel to industry, regulatory agencies, the military, and to the National Academies. A new emphasis on emissions reduction has heightened industry/university cooperation as an adjunct to the traditional federal support of fundamental engine research. Industry funding at the ERC has grown and provides essential support and guidance for future research priorities. The emphasis on cross institutional efforts among peer research universities further defines the path for engine research in the future. The ERC is well positioned to capitalize on these opportunities for continuing the advancement of knowledge and practice in engine efficiency, power and emissions. ...view more