Engines are a true marvel of engineering. While their history dates back around 200 years, the engines we know today are nothing like the ones before. Engines function by compressing air and fuel, then igniting it to produce power. While this is a simple concept, the parts that make the engine work aren't. If you want to know more about how engines are made, make sure to continue reading!
The main components of an engine include:
- Engine block
- Oil pan
- Cylinders and pistons
- Auxiliary or timing belts/chains
- Gaskets and seals
- Crankshafts
- Ignition system
Engine Block
The main component of any vehicle is the engine block. It is a big metal component that usually makes the bulk of the engine. Its main job is to contain the explosions and provide a proper environment for them to happen. One other characteristic it has is that it helps with overall cooling and heat dissipation.
Oil Pan
Usually, located under the engine block the oil pan serves one main purpose. As its name implies it is the main reservoir for the engine oil which it collects when the engine is cold.
Gaskets/Seals
Before we move on to the other parts let's clear one thing. Between every single component, there is either a gasket or a seal. Why you might ask? Well, the simple answer is that the explosions and liquids are kept in the engine. Of course, as with any other engine component, it can get old and start having issues - mainly leaks.
Cylinders and Pistons
Inside the engine block, there are carved cylindrical shapes that serve as a chamber for the explosions. Each cylinder contains a piston that acts as the main moving component of the vehicle. When an explosion happens inside the engine, the piston moves down pushing the crankshaft - resulting in further powering of the drivetrain.
Belts and Chains
Are we talking about belts for pants? Well, not quite. Belts are hooked to other components that need to be supplied with energy, the main one being the alternator. Instead of belts, some vehicles use a chain which is arguably more reliable but more expensive to maintain and replace.
Another important type of belt/chain is the one responsible for timing. One of the things that must work 100% of the time is exactly that, the timing mechanism of the engine. It is responsible for the proper fuel and air intake as well as the ignition timing.
Crankshaft
The crankshaft is connected directly to the pistons. When they move down or up, the crankshaft does it as well. Without it, the engine can't transfer the energy created in the combustion process.
Ignition System
The ignition system, as you might guess, is responsible for the ignition inside the cylinders. It is made in such a way that it ignites the mixture of fuel and air at the right time every single time which is fascinating on its own!
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