Abstract

MOSQUERA ARTAMONOV, José Daniel; ORTIZ GIL, Christian David; FERNANDEZ HENAO, Sergio Augusto  and  MOSQUERA MOSQUERA, Julio César. Economic and mechanic feasibility to convert internal combustion engines to flex fuel systems. Rev. P+L [online]. 2011, vol.6, n.1, pp.85-95. ISSN 1909-0455.

Introduction. This paper introduces the results of a research work made in Pereira and Dosquebradas, in the Risaralda province, about the economic and mechanic feasibility of the conversion of internal combustion engines to flex fuel systems. For the study, a sample of taxi drivers was chosen in the region, given the high consumption of fossil fuel they require for every day of work. Objective. To determine the economic and mechanic feasibility of converting the internal combustion engines taxis in Pereira and Dosquebradas have, to flex fuel systems. Materials and methods. In order to have reliable estimated data, in the cities mentioned, a systematic sampling model in twelve specific places with more than 10 taxis parked was used. 5 taxis were surveyed in each place, completing a 348 taxi drivers surveyed. Results. Results demonstrate that, even though conversion is feasible under mechanic terms for mixtures below E-85, and also brings a significant increase in the control of pollutant emissions to the atmosphere, it is not economically feasible in Colombia, given the current market conditions. Conclusion. Even though the research work was made in two cities in the Colombian coffee crops zone, it can be concluded, with a 95% of reliability that results in any other Colombian town will be the same, demonstrating an economic unfeasibility to convert engines to flexible systems countrywide.

Keywords : flexible systems; CO2 emissions; economic feasibility; combustion systems; ethanol; natural vehicular gas; gasoline.

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