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Show V. CONCLUSIONS AND FUTURE STUDIES Conclusions A definite conclusion from the standpoint of fuel consumption and efficiency is that the alternative fuels tested could be used as additives or extenders to diesel fuel, without substantial losses, when the INOP was properly adjusted to account for differing fuel properties. The improvement in engine performance, at low cost, makes the search for successful alternative fuels brighter. Future Studies Future studies should be performed on both £ and engine testing. The use of a four cylinder 172 CID engine did not constitute representative engine testing for farm tractors presently in use. The comparison of the results should be made on a more typical engine. The spray coefficient needs to be measured under rigorous conditions. The development of a more accurate injection pressure setter, with a better resolution pressure gauge would give better results. Also, a uniform grade and classification of construction paper for determining £ is needed. Further, a method is needed to clean the test equipment thoroughly so that contamination of the test fuels is avoided. The engine testing could be improved by better instrumentation. This involves both existing equipment and new equipment. The fuel system needs to be upgraded so that when air enters the return line it does not affect the flow rate. The acquisition of a new dynamometer with a separate water supply would cure the load variation problems. Analysis of the lubricating oil and the exhaust gases would be helpful. -52- |