With the aim of creating an energy system of low-cost local production for local consumption that can reduce CO2 emissions, Hitachi is developing technology for the highly efficient use of low-concentration bioethanol produced from unutilized locally available resources. Low-concentration ethanol contains a large quantity of water, and while it is cheap and safe, it is also a fuel that is difficult to burn and therefore difficult to use. To develop an engine system that can run on this difficult-to-burn fuel, Hitachi has conducted technical trials for improving the efficiency and feasibility of a system that uses hydrogen produced from water and ethanol. In examining efficiency improvements, Hitachi has achieved a thermal efficiency of 45% by using lean combustion in an engine running on a hydrogen mixture, and in feasibility trials, it has conducted operating trials using fuel produced on Miyakojima Island.
Center for Exploratory Research, Research & Development Group, Hitachi, Ltd. He is currently engaged in the research and development of hydrous ethanol-fueled engine systems. Dr. Shimada is a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan (JSAE).
Center for Exploratory Research, Research & Development Group, Hitachi, Ltd. He is currently engaged in the research and development of hydrous-ethanol-fueled engine systems.
Center for Exploratory Research, Research & Development Group, Hitachi, Ltd. He is currently engaged in the research and development of hydrous-ethanol-fueled engine systems.