Method and apparatus for exhaust gas recirculation cooling using a vortex tube to cool recirculated exhaust gases

Abstract

An engine includes an exhaust conduit, an intake conduit, and a vortex tube disposed between the exhaust conduit and the intake conduit. The vortex tube has an inlet in fluid communication with the exhaust conduit, a cold gas outlet in fluid communication with the intake conduit, and a hot gas outlet.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present invention relates generally to engines and, more particularly, to cooling recirculated exhaust gases in engines. BACKGROUND [0002] In order to minimize pollutants such as NOX, internal combustion engines may include an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system that includes an EGR valve. EGR systems primarily recirculate exhaust gas by-products into the intake air supply of the internal combustion engine. The EGR valve can be used to redirect a portion of exhaust gases to an intake conduit, such as an intake manifold, so that the redirected exhaust gases will be recycled. [0003] The exhaust gas which is reintroduced to the engine cylinder reduces the concentration of oxygen therein, which in turn lowers the maximum combustion temperature within the cylinder and slows the chemical reaction of the combustion process, decreasing the formation of nitrous oxides (NOx). Furthermore, the exhaust gases typically contain unburned hydrocarbons that are burned o...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

The exhaust gas which is reintroduced to the engine cylinder reduces the concentration of oxygen therein, which in turn lowers the maximum combustion temperature within the cylinder and slows the chemical reaction of the combustion process, decreasing the formation of nitrous oxides (NOx).

However, such devices require an increase in the overall heat rejection capability of the engine.

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