Introduction to SI Combustion Modeling

This course introduces the core principles of SI combustion and the modeling techniques used to simulate and optimize engine performance. Learners will explore zero- and one-dimensional chemistry tools, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and ignition modeling, with a focus on real-world application. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped to create and interpret combustion models that support advanced engine development.

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What You Will Learn:

Define and describe combustion processes in spark-ignited engines.
Apply modeling techniques to simulate turbulence, fuel spray, and ignition behavior.
Analyze knock and cycle-to-cycle variability using advanced simulation tools.

Who Should Attend:

Powertrain and combustion engineers working with spark-ignited engine systems.
Engineering students and researchers focused on engine modeling and simulation.
Technical professionals involved in engine calibration, emissions, or performance optimization.

Course Details: RA01769-D539

Course Outline

Session 1: SI Combustion Fundamentals

Session 2: Turbulence in SI Engines

Session 3: Fuel Spray Injection in SI Engines

Session 4: Zero-and One-Dimensional Chemistry Tools

Session 5: Secondary Circuit, Arc, and Ignition Modeling

Session 6: SI Combustion Modeling

Session 7: SI Engine Cycle-to Cycle Variation

Session 8: SI Engine Knock Modeling

Course Schedule

Students work through online course modules in their own time and at their own pace.

Program Director & Instructors

Program Director
Blake Suhre
Ahmed Moiz
Dr. Moiz is a mechanical engineer with an emphasis on Thermal-Fluid systems. He has experience in hand-on testing in constant volume combustion chambers with laser diagnostics and plasma spectroscopy. Dr. Moiz’s experience also heavily involves Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) of engines.

After a post-doc at Argonne, Dr. Moiz joined Southwest Research Institute as a research engineer in January 2018 in the spark ignition department and moved to engine design and development department later that year. His role currently involves, performing CFD of SI and Diesel engines with an emphasis on design optimization and coating research for improved engine operation, ignition modeling to model the spark in an SI engine, combustion model development to improve run-time of CFD codes.
Zainal Abidin
Dr. Abidin’s formal training is in Mechanical Engineering with an emphasis on Thermal/Fluids Systems. Within this field, he has specialized in Computational Fluid Dynamics, Reciprocating Compressor and Engine Design. Dr. Abidin has authored over 30 technical papers and reports, covering subjects including novel simulation methods, compressor performance improvement and engine design.

Dr. Abidin joined Southwest Research Institute in August 2009 in the Powertrain Division, where he is involved in engine/ after-treatment simulation and unique solutions to numerical problems. Dr. Abidin is actively involved on several on-going consortium and stand-alone projects in the division. Currently Dr. Abidin is managing the analysis team in the Design and Analysis Department. He is also actively teaching several courses at the UTSA as an adjunct Professor.

Total Credits:

CEU .4,

PDH 4,

Certificate Compatibility:

Engine Systems,

Course Administration

Payment Options

If you are planning to attend an Interdisciplinary Professional Programs course, payment is required at the time of registration. Below are the payment options:

Pay by Credit Card

Enroll online and pay by credit card.

Search for the course on the website and then click on the Enroll Now button from the course webpage.
Enter all necessary course attendee information and payment information on the course enrollment page.
You will receive an email to confirm successful enrollment and payment.

Enroll over the phone and pay by credit card.

Call CERC Registrations at 608-262-2451.
Provide the registrations representative with:
- the course name, dates, and/or course number.
- the necessary course attendee information and payment information.
You will receive either a mailed document or an email to confirm successful enrollment payment.

Pay by Check

Mail in a completed registration form and check payable to UW Madison.

Fill out a registration form (found either in the back of the course brochure you received in the mail or here).
Prepare a check, made payable to UW Madison.
Mail the registration form and check to: CERC Registrations 21 N Park St, Ste 7101 Madison, WI 53715
You will receive either a mailed document or an email to confirm successful enrollment and payment.

Pay by Purchase Order

Request Purchase Order information from interpro@union.wisc.edu
- If a fee quote is needed, contact custserv@interpro.wisc.edu first
You will receive an invoice from UW–Madison Business Services for payment, usually within 3–5 business days

Military

If using SF-182 form, please call our registration number at 608-262-2451 or email interpro@union.wisc.edu for details and instructions.

Event Cancellation

We reserve the right to cancel a course due to insufficient enrollment or unforeseen events. If we cancel a course, participants will be notified via email or phone and will be given the option for a full refund or to transfer their registration and any fees paid to another course. We are not responsible for non-refundable plane tickets, hotel reservations, and other travel related expenses. For enrollee Course Cancellation, refer to notes on course page.

Cancellation Policy

Once you have accessed the online course materials, no cancellations or refunds are permitted.