Unit: 1

1.1 Engine Fundamentals

Introduction to engine

An engine is a complex mechanical device that converts fuel into mechanical energy to which performs the
necessary work or to power the vehicles. An Engine is basically classified into Internal Combustion Engine
(I.C) and External Combustion Engine (E.C)
Internal Combustion Engine (I.C)

Internal Combustion Engine is an engine in which combustion (burning of fuel) takes place inside the
engine itself. It's a type of heat engine where the fuel burns directly within the working fluid to produce
mechanical energy. The most common examples of I.C. engines are gasoline (petrol) engines and diesel
engines used in automobiles
External Combustion Engine (E.C)

External Combustion is associated with engines where combustion occurs outside the main engine unit.
Steam engines are classic examples of external combustion engines. In a steam engine, water is heated
externally to produce steam, and the steam is then used to generate mechanical work in a separate
chamber
Classification of I.C Engine
Spark ignition (S.I) Engine
A Spark Ignition (SI) engine, commonly referred to as a gasoline engine, operates on the principle of igniting
the air-fuel mixture using an external spark. Typically fueled by gasoline (petrol), the SI engine compresses
the air-fuel mixture within the cylinder, and ignition is initiated by a spark plug. This method allows for
precise control over the combustion process, enabling optimal performance and responsiveness. SI engines
are commonly found in cars, motorcycles, and smaller vehicles, offering a balance between fuel efficiency,
power delivery, and emissions control. The ability to control ignition timing makes SI engines suitable for
various driving conditions and performance requirements.

Compression ignition (C.I) Engine

In contrast, a Compression Ignition (CI) engine, commonly known as a diesel engine, operates on the basis
of spontaneous ignition through compression i.e. compressed air. Diesel fuel is used as the primary fuel
source, and the air within the cylinder is compressed to a point where it reaches a high temperature and
pressure. This compression causes the diesel fuel to ignite without the need for an external spark. CI
engines are recognized for their fuel efficiency and robust torque delivery, making them well-suited for
heavier vehicles such as trucks, buses, and industrial applications. The absence of a spark plug and reliance
on compression for ignition contributes to the distinctive characteristics of CI engines, offering advantages
in specific use cases where torque and efficiency are paramount.
Working Principle of two-stroke Petrol Engine
Working Principle of two stroke Diesel Engine
Working principle of four stroke petrol Engine
Working principle of Four stoke Diesel Engine
Engine components and their function
Valve Mechanism
The valve mechanism in an internal combustion engine is a crucial component responsible for regulating
the flow of air and fuel into the combustion chamber and the expulsion of exhaust gases after combustion.
It comprises various elements working in concert to precisely time the opening and closing of intake and
exhaust valves. Typically housed in the cylinder head, the engine's valve system includes the intake valve,
allowing the entry of the air-fuel mixture from the intake manifold, and the exhaust valve, facilitating the
exit of burnt gases to the exhaust system. Key components in the valve mechanism include the camshaft,
cam lobes, pushrods (in some configurations), rocker arms, and the valves themselves. This process is
crucial for coordinating with the engine's four-stroke cycle—intake, compression, power, and exhaust. The
precision of the valve mechanism is essential for optimizing combustion efficiency, power output, and
overall engine performance.

Valve timing Diagram

A Valve Timing Diagram is a graphical representation that illustrates the precise timing events of an
internal combustion engine intake and exhaust valves in relation to the positions of the piston and the
crankshaft. This diagram provides a visual depiction of when the valves open and close during each cycle of
the engine. The key components and events represented in a valve timing diagram include:
1. Top Dead Center (TDC):
The position of the piston at the top of its stroke.
2. Bottom Dead Center (BDC):
The position of the piston at the bottom of its stroke.
3. Valve Opening and Closing Events:
The diagram indicates when the intake and exhaust valves open and close during the engine's
operation. This includes the points at which the intake valve opens to allow the air-fuel mixture into
the combustion chamber and when the exhaust valve opens to let out the burnt gases.
4. Overlap:
Overlap refers to the period during which both the intake and exhaust valves are open
simultaneously. This can enhance engine performance by promoting better scavenging of exhaust
gases and improving intake efficiency.
The Valve Timing Diagram is crucial for engineers in optimizing an engine's performance, fuel efficiency,
and emissions. It helps determine the most effective timing for valve events based on factors such as
engine speed, load, and design goals. Adjusting the valve timing can impact various aspects of engine
performance, including power output, fuel economy, and emissions control. Different engines may have
different valve timing diagrams depending on their design and intended application, and the diagram
serves as a valuable tool for understanding and fine-tuning these critical timing events for optimal engine
operation.
Faults and Remedies of petrol and Diesel Engine