Eric J Nafziger

Bio

During the past 25 years at ORNL, Eric Nafziger has become a leader in design, installation, and operation of large-scale experimental systems, and an expert in internal combustion engines, alternative fuels, lubricants, and controls.  He is playing a critical role in transitioning ORNL fuels and engines R&D to focus on decarbonization of hard-to-electrify non-road transportation sectors in fuels, engines, and vehicle research, and has been involved with a plethora of projects related to on-road medium/heavy duty engines, advanced dual fuel combustion, and waste heat recovery systems.  Over past years, he has been involved with neutron imaging experiments of both diesel and gasoline fuel injectors at ORNL’s High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR); he was instrumental in developing the stroboscopic imaging techniques used to observe internal dynamics of high pressure fuel injectors in operation.  Eric also helped to champion efforts in the Connected and Autonomous Vehicle (CAV) arena and in setting the foundation for ORNL's Virtual Physical Proving Ground (VPPG) using the Rototest hub dynamometer system.  Along with many other engine installations, he performed critical roles in design, installation, and integration of the unique ExxonMobil Enterprise single-cylinder marine engine and fluid support systems for this testbed.  Over recent years he has headed up many major infrastructure upgrades and equipment installations at NTRC (>$1.5M) in support of multiple DOE, CRADA, and SPP projects.  Most recently, Eric has directed the design and integration of support systems for installation of a Wabtec single-cylinder locomotive engine that will be converted to run on hydrogen and other low-lifecycle carbon fuels.

Professional Experience

2019 – Pres  Technical Professional, Applied Catalysis and Emissions Research Group, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)

2004 – 2019  Research and Development Staff, Fuels Engines and Emissions Research Center, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)

1999 – 2004  ORISE Appointment, Fuels Engines and Emissions Research Center, Oak Ridge Associated Universities ORISE Appointment (ORAU/ORISE)

Education

University of Tennessee Knoxville, B.S. in Mechanical Engineering 2003

Professional Affiliations

ASME American Society of Mechanical Engineers

SAE Society of Automotive Engineers

Specialized Equipment

HFIR beamline (CG1D), MCP detector, Rototest Hub Dynamometer, Engine dynamometers and AC Drive Units, air compressors, NG compressors, SMAW welders, GMAW welders, plasma cutters, air gouging, heavy equipment, crane operation, emission analyzers, FTIR, TEOM, MOUDI, EEPS, SMPS, XRF, drilling/tapping equipment, pipefitting, hoisting and rigging, dirt moving equipment, laser alignment and layout equipment, bucket truck operation, forklift operator Class 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, high pressure hydraulic systems, dump truck operator, metal fabrication equipment, chainsaws, blacksmithing and forging, tire machines, et al

Publications