The impact of engine lubricating oil on the occurrence of Low Speed Pre-Ignition in turbocharged GDI engines

In modern DISI (Direct Injected Spark Ignited) and supercharged engines, increasing the intake pressure is a way to achieve better performance, better fuel economy and, consequently, lower CO2 emission. However, boosted DISI and downsized engines are suffering from a series of abnormal combustion problems of which the LSPI (Low Speed Pre-Ignition) is an important part. LSPI can lead to potential serious damage of the engine (e.g. broken pistons, bent connecting rods or severe engine failure). The article describes the difference between pre-ignition, LSPI, knocking and super-knocking. Knocking and LSPI are two distinct events, caused by two different phenomena. The complex mechanism occurring in LSPI has been outlined. It explains why, unlike conventional knocking, an LSPI event cannot be predicted and corrected by adjusting spark timing or increasing the octane number. More current research suggest that the auto-ignition of oil droplets is probably the major cause of LSPI. However, many factors can cause LSPI, including: engine design, engine operating conditions as well lubricant and fuel composition. With regard to engine lubricating oil, the most noticeable impact has been from detergent chemistry. Aside from the detergent system, there are many other additive and lubricant compositions that can affect LSPI. Furthermore, base oils also affect LSPI events. Both the quality of the base stock and the viscosity can have secondary effects on LSPI. The discussed results suggest that appropriate engine lubricating oil formulations may enable the mitigation of LSPI. However, the complete elimination of LSPI will hardly be achieved by modifying only the oil properties.