UNSW and Scania join forces to advance clean technologies for a sustainable future

Engineers from Scania in Sweden and researchers from the UNSW Engine Combustion Group are partnering on an innovative project to advance clean engine technology.

Led by UNSW’s Associate Professor Shaun Chan and Professor Shawn Kook, along with Scania’s Johan Linderyd, Eric Olofsson, and Ahmad Hadadpour, the collaboration is focused on an experimental investigation into novel ignition strategies for hydrogen in compression-ignition engines.

The project uses a specialized pre-burn type combustion chamber at UNSW that can replicate the high-temperature and high-pressure conditions of modern engines in a highly controlled environment.

This unique setup features both window and access ports that allow for detailed laser and optical diagnostics, providing a depth of information that traditional engine testing cannot achieve. This advanced diagnostic capability enables the team to capture precise combustion characteristics, enhancing their understanding of hydrogen ignition under conditions relevant to heavy-duty transport. Together, the insights gained through this collaboration aim to pave the way for hydrogen-fuelled engines and contribute to decarbonizing the heavy-duty transport sector. The partnership benefits from extensive exchanges of ideas, with Scania offering industry aligned insights into practical requirements, and UNSW providing cutting-edge facilities and diagnostic capabilities at the forefront of engine research. The collaboration has thrived despite geographical distance and time zone differences, due to effective communication and a shared commitment to addressing complex engineering challenges.

"We were conscious of the unique timing challenges when initiating the project, but the partnership quickly became seamless,” says A/Professor Chan.

“Clear milestones, regular updates and an open communication channel allow us to capitalize on each team’s strengths and perspectives without delay. We benefitted from our interactions with the assembly of experts within Scania team, spanning combustion systems, computational modellers to materials experts. The open exchange of ideas in the lead up to and at each meeting is something we genuinely value and look forward to."

"We enjoy receiving feedback as Scania's industry perspective makes our research more relevant to the real world," explains Professor Kook. "It is exciting to know what our finding has a clear pathway for translation, and the outcome will make a direct impact on carbon reduction in transport."

As part of the collaboration, Scania and UNSW are jointly mentoring a Master’s by Research candidate over a two-year period. Mr Yijun Lin, a UNSW aerospace undergraduate graduate is now working directly with Scania engineers and UNSW’s research team, gaining invaluable exposure to real-world applications in the transport sector and leveraging UNSW’s state-of-the-art combustion diagnostics.

“Professionalism, high-quality research, precise delivery of results, accurate planning, and an enjoyable working atmosphere characterize the exceptional work of A/Professor Shaun Chan, Professor Shawn Kook, and Master’s student Yijun Lin on this project.” says Dr Ahmad Hadadpour.

“When we first defined this project two years ago, even our most optimistic expectations did not foresee such a remarkable outcome. Despite substantial geographical distance, time zone differences, and complex technical challenges, none of these proved insurmountable. The UNSW team's professionalism, deep understanding, and meticulous planning, combined with their scientific approach, enabled them to effectively investigate, present, and draw meaningful conclusions. Their dedication and commitment ensured the project’s success.”

The partnership underscores a commitment to sustainable innovation, showing how academia and industry can collaborate across borders to address the decarbonization challenge. This seamless integration of expertise highlights the power of international collaboration in advancing clean technologies for a sustainable future.