ANALYSIS OF ENGINE SPLIT COOLING SYSTEMS FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES: FOCUS ON TEMPERATURE DISTRIBUTION AND PERFORMANCE OPTIMIZATION

This research focuses on the optimisation and analysis of internal combustion engine (ICE) split cooling systems to enhance thermal management, improve engine efficiency, and reduce emissions. Split cooling systems separate the coolant circuits for the cylinder head and engine block, allowing for differential cooling that maximises warm-up time and operational efficiency. A one-dimensional flow model of the cooling system was developed using GT-Suite simulation software to analyze coolant flow, pressure drops, and temperature distribution across a range of engine speeds (from 1,000 rpm to 5,000 rpm). The simulation results indicate that the split cooling system accelerates the warm-up process, with the cylinder head temperature reaching 260°C compared to 250°C for traditional systems, representing a 10°C improvement in thermal efficiency. Additionally, the split system exhibited a 20°C higher piston temperature (210°C versus 190°C) during warm-up. This configuration enables the use of a higher compression ratio and improved thermal efficiency. The study identifies the limitations of conventional cooling systems in managing heat at elevated engine outputs. In contrast, the split cooling system demonstrates a more uniform temperature distribution and maintains superior performance under increased engine loads. Validation of the simulation results against design targets confirms that split cooling systems significantly enhance engine performance and thermal management, with implications for broader automotive thermal management applications. Future research should focus on on-road testing and further applications to advance engine efficiency and sustainability.