Experimental and Modeling Study of Ash Impact on DPF Backpressure and Regeneration Behaviors

One field-returned DPF loaded with a high amount of ash is examined using experimental and modeling approaches. The ash-related design factors are collected by coupling the inspection results from terahertz spectroscopy with a calibrated DPF model. The obtained ash packing density, ash layer permeability and ash distribution profile are then used in the simulation to assess the ash impact on DPF backpressure and regeneration behaviors. The following features have been observed during the simulation: 1. The ash packing density, ash layer permeability and ash distribution profile should be collected at the same time to ensure the accurate prediction of ash impact on DPF backpressure. Missing one ash property could mislead the measurement of the other two parameters and thus affects the DPF backpressure estimation. 2. The ash buildup would gradually increase the frequency for the backpressure-based active soot regeneration. However, the accumulated ash reduces the energy density during the regeneration event as well as adsorbing exotherm, lowering the thermal cracking risk.