* Uses a separate fuel injection pump for each cylinder
* Fuel pressure is typically lower than in a common rail system
* Injection timing and duration are controlled electronically
* Can be used with a variety of diesel engines
Common Rail Fuel System (CR)
* Uses a single high-pressure fuel pump to supply fuel to all injectors
* Fuel pressure is typically higher than in an ECD system
* Injection timing and duration are controlled electronically
* Can be used with a variety of diesel engines, but is particularly well-suited for high-performance engines
Constructional Differences
The main constructional difference between an ECD system and a CR system is the fuel injection pump. In an ECD system, each cylinder has its own fuel injection pump. These pumps are typically mounted on the engine block and are driven by the camshaft. In a CR system, there is a single high-pressure fuel pump that is mounted on the engine block or in the fuel tank. This pump supplies fuel to all of the injectors through a common rail.
Another constructional difference between the two systems is the fuel pressure. In an ECD system, fuel pressure is typically lower than in a CR system. This is because the individual fuel injection pumps in an ECD system do not need to generate as much pressure as the single high-pressure fuel pump in a CR system.
Finally, the two systems differ in the way that injection timing and duration are controlled. In an ECD system, injection timing and duration are controlled mechanically by the camshaft. In a CR system, injection timing and duration are controlled electronically by the engine's electronic control unit (ECU).
Advantages and Disadvantages
ECD systems are typically less expensive to manufacture than CR systems. They are also easier to repair and maintain. However, CR systems offer better fuel efficiency and performance than ECD systems. This is because CR systems can achieve higher fuel pressures and more precise injection timing and duration.
Applications
ECD systems are commonly used in small, low-performance diesel engines. These engines are typically found in passenger cars, light trucks, and construction equipment. CR systems are commonly used in large, high-performance diesel engines. These engines are typically found in heavy-duty trucks, buses, and construction equipment.
