The JRM RR23 functional demonstrator engine temperature was too high during track testing.
Investigate the root-cause and implement a design improvement.
It was predicted that a system investigation was required so JRM partnered with Catesby Tunnel utilising their experience and facilities to run CFD analysis.
Heat rejection targets were set by benchmarking applications of similar engine power. JRM worked closely with Catesby to characterise the existing design, then perform experiments with different configurations to understand system performance. Heat exchanger aspect ratios and configurations were trialed to achieve the final result. Body inlet aperture, cooling pack ducts, and bonnet exit ducts all had to be optimised to
achieve targets.
Low air mass flow through the engine water and oil coolers was identified as the root-cause. A re-design of the front of the car and outlet ducts was required to achieve the required
improvement. Fan placement and specification was incorporated into the study to achieve good zero andlow vehicle speed performance. Intercooler performance also improved significantly as part
of this project. The understanding and performance improvement through CFD could not be realised by
track testing!
