Internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine (ICE) is an engine in which the combustion of a fuel occurs with an oxidizer in a combustion chamber that is an integral part of the working fluid flow circuit. In an internal combustion engine, the expansion of the high-temperature and high-pressure gases produced by combustion applies direct force to some component of the engine. The force is applied typically to pistons, turbine blades, rotor or a nozzle. This force moves the component over a distance, transforming chemical energy into useful mechanical energy.
The four main components of an internal combustion engine are the fuel system, ignition system, spark plugs, and engine valves. The fuel system consists of a supply of fuel, typically in the form of gasoline, diesel, or natural gas, as well as a carburetor or fuel injection system for mixing the fuel with air. The ignition system provides the spark to ignite the fuel/air mixture in the combustion chamber. Spark plugs are used to deliver the spark to the combustion chamber. Finally, engine valves are used to control the flow of exhaust gases out of the combustion chamber.
Internal combustion engines are often described according to the type of fuel used and the number of strokes of the piston required to generate one power cycle. Common types of internal combustion engines include gasoline engines, diesel engines, and natural gas engines. Gasoline engines are two stroke to four stroke engines and use spark ignition to ignite the fuel. Diesel engines are generally four stroke engines and use compression ignition to ignite the fuel. Natural gas engines are generally four stroke engines and either use spark or compression ignition to ignite the fuel mixture.
The efficiency of any engine is determined by the type of fuel being used, the compression ratio of the engine, and the cooler coolant used to reduce the engine temperature. Gasoline engines generally have the highest efficiency and are commonly used in cars and trucks. Diesel engines have a lower efficiency, however, this is offset by their higher power output and reliability. Natural gas engines have the lowest efficiency but have the added benefit of being the most environmentally friendly.
The main function of an internal combustion engine is to convert chemical energy in fuel to mechanical energy. In order to do this, several processes take place inside the engine. Intake occurs when fuel is mixed with air and drawn into the combustion chamber. Here, the fuel and air mixture is compressed, igniting the fuel and producing heat. The expanding gases push against the moving parts of the engine and cause it to rotate or move. Finally, the exhaust gasses are expelled from the engine, completing the cycle.
Internal combustion engines are used to power a wide variety of machinery, from cars and trucks to airplanes and ships. They are also used to power generators and small engines for lawn and garden equipment. These engines are relatively efficient and easy to maintain, making them popular choices for a variety of applications.
