The Internal Combustion Engine

The Internal Combustion Engine

The engines in vehicles is a rather broad but interesting subject. People may be amazed to know that the ones currently in use today were drawn on several hundreds of blueprints before they were distributed to the market. The present models are the result of over a century worth of brainstorming and experience and will further influence the models of the future.

What is the ICE?

ICE stands for internal combustion engine wherein the combustion of fuel and an oxidizer occurs. The combustion chamber is the space where everything happens causing an exothermic reaction that produces gas at a high pressure and temperature. The expanding hot gases will directly put pressure on solid engine parts causing them to move. Pistons, rotors or the engine itself then begins movement which propels the entire vehicle.

The very first models of the ICE ran on an air/fuel mixture rather than compression. The initial part of the intake stroke sucks or blows in the mixture. Modern ICEs already incorporates in-cylinder compression. The engines were used in a variety of methods and industries like generators, boats, aircrafts and most particularly, automobiles.

The Operation

The internal combustion engine operates using a four-stroke cycle or the Otto cycle. The cycle involves four phases namely: induction, compression, power and exhaust. All of these aim to create an exothermic chemical process to start vehicle propulsion. During induction, oxygen or other oxidizers are introduced into the cylinder to act with the fuel. Compression then begins as the gases start a reaction that continuously increase temperature and pressure within the cylinder.

When enough pressure is applied on the corresponding engine parts, the engine begins to gain power through movement coming from direct force application. The aftermath of the entire compression process will lead to exhaustion of byproducts like carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and nitrogen wastes. These gases are freely emitted into the atmosphere. The combustion process is started through engine ignition using the spark ignition method or the compression ignition system.

Where Does Gasoline Come In?

There are electric/gasoline-type systems that use a combination of lead-acid battery plus an induction coil to create a high-voltage electrical spark. The spark will then ignite the mix of air and fuel within the cylinder. The battery is rechargeable even during operation through an alternator or generator driven by the engine itself. Gasoline engines get an air and gasoline mixture to be compressed to less than 185 psi. The spark plug ignites the mixture during compression within the cylinder.

As for diesel engines, these require only heat and pressure produced by the engine during the compression process for ignition. Diesel compression is approximately three times higher compared to a gasoline engine. Diesel engines use air only. Some diesel fuel is sprayed into the cylinder with the use of a fuel injector just before peak compression to start ignition immediately. HCCI engines also require only heat and pressure but take in air and fuel. This process makes diesel and HCCI engines more prone to cold starts.

The Polluting Effects

Combustion products or the hot gases ignited and burnt inside the engine will have higher amounts of energy compared to the compressed fuel and air mixture. After available energy are used up to drive the engine pistons, remaining combustion products will be vented or exhausted through a valve or the exhaust outlet to bring back the piston in its original state also called TDC. Any heat which is not used up will become a waste product due to be removed from the engine via a liquid or air cooling system.

Air pollution emissions then result from incomplete combustion of carbonaceous fuel. Examples of engine byproducts are carbon monoxide, soot, nitrogen wastes, sulfur and uncombusted hydrocarbons. These also result if the products did not operate near the stoichiometric ratio required for effective combustion. The fuel would not have burnt very well due to factors like cool cylinder walls or lack of air. This is also known as quenching of the flame.

Both gasoline and diesel engines emit harmful gases that can be dangerous to humans as well as the environment. The greenhouse gases start trapping hot air within the atmosphere instead of allowing them to exit to space leading to global warming. The rise of the ICE or internal combustion engine finally showed its major flaw which is pollution.

The Best of Both Worlds

The Best of Both Worlds

Hybrid vehicles are slowly taking over the automotive market. Environmental issues and rising gas prices have prompted scientists and companies to provide alternatives. These vehicles provide an option for consumers and reduce dependence from fuel (ex. Diesel, petrol).

Hybrid technology has been steadily developing over the past centuries. Although diesel will always be a dominant power source for vehicles, other sources are also being utilized to reduce harmful impacts on the environment and health of the general public. This gives hybrid vehicles the edge over conventional vehicles today.

It is no doubt that mankind is not only depleting the planet of its natural resources but also causing its deterioration. The development of science and technology has made Hollywood sci-fi movie sets more feasible than we thought but it also brings a lot of consequences. The development of other power sources such as vehicles and fuels are beneficial in the long run to sustain life on earth.

Hybrid electric vehicles

Hybrid electric vehicles work by using an internal combustion engine which uses fuel and a rechargeable energy storage system. By using the combination of these two power sources the vehicle will be able to decrease fuel consumption, reduce pollution and noise emissions. It is different from the hybrid vehicle drive trains which uses a fuel power source and a rechargeable energy storage system.

Diesel engines are typically used to generate power for hybrid vehicles. These vehicles can also use biofuels which are renewable sources of energy. This reduces the dependence on petroleum for fuel. Decreased use of fuel leads to lesser emissions and lower costs.

These vehicles are able to recapture wasted energy and turn off the diesel engine during low output and idle periods such as traffic. The internal combustion engines are also much lighter and efficient when compared to conventional cars. The technology reduces the wear on the engine and the brakes. Contrary to popular belief hybrid electric vehicles batteries are not hazardous wastes. They can be recycled and reused.

These vehicles are suitable in urban environments where traffic is normal and there are more people in the streets. Emissions from cars are also harmful on the health of the general public.

These vehicles provide a practical alternative for environment conscious consumers. Gas prices, environment and health issues are all being addressed by this technology. Hopefully in the future these types of vehicles will be more accessible all over the world.

Top Hybrid Vehicle Myths

Top Hybrid Vehicle Myths

Hybrid vehicles have created a lot of hype. As a result, misinformation is all over the place. It is time to separate facts from fiction and clarify some of the myths created by the stir.

1. You can save money when you buy a hybrid car.

While you can definitely save money on gas, the amount of the hybrid car itself can set you back. Hybrid cars are not very expensive though. But if you are thinking that you can make back your investment, you got the wrong concept of buying a hybrid car. You buy a hybrid car because you want to reduce the demand for fuel, to help save the environment, and want to earn the bragging rights of one of the first to drive a hybrid.

2. Hybrid batteries need to be replaced.

The high cost of hybrid battery replacement is one of the main reasons why some may avoid buying a hybrid car. The fact is Toyota has claimed that there is not a single battery replacement reported due to wearing out or malfunction. Moreover, manufacturers issue a standard 80,000 and 100,000 miles warranty for hybrid batteries depending on the location of the dealer- though that does not mean that you have to replace your batteries after 100,000 miles.

3. Hybrid vehicles are very expensive to maintain.

Maintaining a hybrid car costs almost the same as maintaining a conventional gasoline-engine car. According to Honda website, the 5-year maintenance and repair costs for the Honda Civic Hybrid and Toyota Prius are $2,056 and $1,969 respectively; while the Honda Civic Si Sedan 6-Spd MT has a 5-year maintenance and repair cost of $2,137.

4. Hybrid cars are the only solution to environmental problems.

The number of hybrid vehicles on US roads may hit the 1 million mark sometime in 2008 but that doesn’t mean that is has solved the problems of the environment. There are approx. 200 million cars in the US that consumes roughly a total of 400 million gallons of fuel each day. Clearly, we have a long way to go.

5. Hybrid vehicles are small and underpowered.

If you limit your thinking to the Civic Hybrid’s 1.3 L engine and disregard the 20-hp electric motor, then you may think that hybrid vehicles are small and underpowered. Think of the Toyota Camry with its 2.4 L engine or the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid with its 6.0 L Vortec V8 engine. Hybrid cars are not only powerful, they are big.

The Benefits of Hybrid Vehicles

The Benefits of Hybrid Vehicles

Buying a hybrid car may give you the bragging rights of being the first person in your neighborhood to drive a hybrid vehicle. But that does not end there. Harnessing the hybrid technology can actually give you several benefits you cannot expect from a conventional gasoline-engine car.

1. Fuel economy. Depending on the driving condition and driver’s habits, a gasoline powered family sedan can run 15-34 miles on a gallon of fuel. Hybrid cars, on the other hand can run 40-60% longer at 20- 60 miles on a gallon of gas. This is perhaps the biggest reason why hybrid cars are so popular today. And with the uncontrollable increase in pump prices, hybrid cars can solve at least one of the obvious problems.

2. Durability. The hybrid vehicle automatically shuts off its combustion engine when idling. Not only does it help to conserve gas, it also reduces the wear on the engine. Also, the regenerative braking system that recaptures the lost energy when braking reduces the wear on the brakes.

3. Tax credit reward. While the sticker price of one hybrid car can set you back several thousands more than its non-hybrid counterpart, you can actually enjoy a tax reward of as much as $3000 depending on what hybrid car you buy. Also, the government imposes several incentives exclusive to hybrid car owners like free parking among others.

4. Environmental impact. Hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, particulate matter (diesel), and formaldehyde also known as formalin are 5 noxious gases emitted by gasoline- or diesel-powered vehicles. These gases contribute to the greenhouse effect. In short, these gases are harmful to the environment. Since hybrid cars consume less fuel, they also emit less fumes.

5. Sophisticated design. If you only care about the looks of the car, then choose among one of the available hybrid cars on the market today and you’ll surely fall in love with one of them. Hybrid cars are among the best looking cars today.

6. Exclusivity. There are only a few hybrids among 200 million cars on the road today. And if you own one, then you’ll feel that you own an exotic car. While this won’t last long since many car manufacturers have announced more hybrid models in the future plus more and more hybrids are being sold everyday, it is still a good feeling that you are one of the first.

Features You may Want for Your Hybrid Car

Features You may Want for Your Hybrid Car

Hybrid cars were not created equal. Some produce more power. Some are designed for maximum fuel efficiency. Some are built for city driving; others are made to turn heads. Most have unique features that further improve the quality of driving and fuel economy. When you are shopping for one, take note of the following features.

Regenerative braking system. In conventional gasoline-powered cars, all the kinetic energy (energy in motion) is lost and wasted during braking. Hybrid cars recapture this kinetic energy through the regenerative braking system back to the battery for future use. The regenerative braking system increases fuel economy and reduces wear to the brakes.

Low-rolling resistance tires. Tires are often not seen as a major factor in increasing the fuel economy. But in hybrid cars, they use low-rolling resistance tires to improve gas mileage. These stiffer, narrower, and inflated tires reduce the drag against the ground.

Fuel economy. Not all hybrids are fuel efficient. Some are made to perform. And even if the hybrids are made to get the longest miles out of every gallon of gas, some are still better than others. For example, the Ford Escape Hybrid runs 34 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on highway. Toyota Prius runs 48 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on highway. The Honda Civic Hybrid runs 40 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on highway. When choosing what hybrid car to buy, take note of these differences.

Periodic engine shut off. Idling consumes fuel too. So, most hybrid cars automatically turn off its combustion engine temporarily during stops. A hybrid car with this feature is most ideal if you drive in stop-and-go traffic most of the time.

Smaller and more efficient engine. Logically, the car does not actually need a V6 or a V8 in order to run because most of the time, your car only requires 20 hp to move. The extra horsepower is only needed during acceleration. This is the reason why hybrid cars are so efficient. They use smaller engines.

Safety, Comfort, and Space. These are 3 issues that are questionable to hybrid cars. In general, hybrid cars are as safe, as comfortable, and as spacious as their non-hybrid counterpart. But if you are more concerned about not getting these 3 in a hybrid car, you should not have a problem. There are several hybrid cars on the market today that focus on these 3 areas.

The Wonders of the Toyota Prius Hybrid Automotive The Wonders of the Toyota Prius Hybrid Automotive - A full report on possible delays to hybrid car production as a result of the March eleven earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Now there may be phrase of the first actual delay: Toyota says the new Prius V-the larger model of the most well-liked hybrid hatchback-shall be delayed from its planned April rollout in Japan. Does that mean the Prius V will not go on sale in the United States in late summer season 2011 as deliberate? Not necessarily. “This hasn’t been determined,” stated Toyota spokesman Mike Michels. The Prius V has 50 % more cargo house than the present Prius, while delivering forty two miles per gallon in metropolis driving and 38 mpg on the highway. Pricing has not been announced.Motor Traits Automobile of the Yr for 2004, North American Car of the Year in 2004, 2004 International Engine of the Yr, 2005 European Automobile of the Yr, 2006 Energuide Award within the Midsize section, this and more are the accolades given to the Toyota Prius Hybrid Car. Undoubtedly probably the most widespread and most regarded competitor within the ever rising hybrid automotive segment, the Toyota Prius has definitely made a marked in the motor industry. The Toyota Prius is a Hybrid automotive that makes a bold statement against environmental points and the rising fuel prices. It is usually the primary ever mass-produced hybrid car for commercial purposes. Its title itself means first. The Toyota Prius hybrid automotive was first sold in Japan in 1997 before it was distributed everywhere in the globe four years later in 2001. Its recognition was boosted by environmentalists touting it because the automotive for the future to save our planet from air pollution. Sales in North America ws sturdy and growing annually. By fall of 2006, the Toyota Prius hybrid car had the strongest demand and has the longest preorder and waiting record there may be presently. Toyota sees the Prius as a venue that would supply the shoppers with a vehicle that might produce much less air pollution and to be very energy efficient. And Toyota definitely reached that goal. They created the Prius from the underside up resulting to a true hybrid car that is beloved worldwide. Toyota engineers got here up with a couple of methods to develop the Toyota Prius hybrid car to be not like other previous concept electrical automobiles, the Prius doesn’t ever must be plugged in for recharging. The two electrical motor turbines get its power from the fuel engine, recharging while the engine power is being used. Additionally, through regenerative braking, a process that recovers kinetic power when the automobile brakes and reworking it to electrical power to recharge the batteries. By 2004 a second technology of Toyota Prius hybrid automobile was launched on the market. Capitalizing on the event of the brand new Hybrid Synbergy Drive know-how, the earlier Toyota Hybrid System was changed in the new generation Toyota Hybrids. Many enhancements have been developed and infused within the know-how making the Toyota Prius hybrid car even higher than before. Apart from the engine, Toyota added extra room to the Toyota Prius hybrid automotive making it wider and taller permitting for taller folks to take a seat erect contained in the car and allowing more views of the road. Because of the success introduced by the Toyota Prius hybrid car and the general public awareness it has developed, Toyota has extended its Hybrid lineup to their different vehicles. This contains the Toyota Camry hybrid and their top of the road Lexus marquee with the Lexus RX400H. As a new model-one which answers the wants of hybrid consumers who've been seeking extra passenger and cargo room-the Prius V was already prone to be in high demand and quick provide in 2011. The present bounce in gasoline prices-hitting a nationwide common of $3.56 and $3.96 in California this week-has intensified demand for hybrids, whereas the results of the earthquake have at the least temporarily crimped production. Those impacts are solely now hitting U.S. hybrid dealers. Final week, Mike Sullivan of the L.A. Car Guy-reported to be the nation’s number one seller of hybrid cars-advised HybridCars.com, “Hybrid sales are very good, however there’s no panic purchasing.” He stated that his dealerships are working a forty five-day inventory. “That will likely be high-quality, after which in around forty five days, the inventory will take a hit.” Actually, the Toyota Prius hybrid automotive has gone a long way. Its engineering superiority and its wonderful repute has made it an important choice for many people. Even numerous notable famous individuals have bought themselves a Toyota Prius hybrid automobile to point out their help to environmental awareness. Toyota has positively hit the nail in the head with the Toyota Prius hybrid car and we are able to expect to see extra of this technology in the future. With Toyota’s dedication to this endeavor, we will make sure that we are able to lastly lower down on gas consumption and save our planet. This could mean normal costs and deals in March and April, followed by temporary ready lists and supplier mark-ups in May. After which by summer, inventories may return to normal, just because the Prius V enters the market. “We can be positive long run,” Sullivan said. “Our concern now is Japanese families trying to regain any sort of normal life." The L.A. Automotive Man dealership group established an identical fund with its seven-hundred employees to lift at the very least $50,000 in reduction funds.

The Hystory Of Classic Sport Cars

A Classic Sports Car Story

Classic sports cars

Those threesome words come up together to form an image of grandeur, pace and extravagance. For who crapper afford artist sports cars? Only the affluent of course! But for the cipher “Joe” who dreams of having his possess artist sports automobile and hopes to know more about it, this article is meant to provide information on this amazing “king of the road”.

First know the foremost brands of artist sports cars.

1. Lotus

Lotus is famous for coming up with the Lotus Elise 11S, Lotus Elise Motorsport, Lotus Elan, Lotus Europa Twin Cam, Lotus Super Seven S4, Lotus Elan SE Turbo and Lotus Super Seven Replica by Birkin.

2. Austin Healey Sprite

Only Austin Healey Sprite crapper come up with the Bugeye Sprite Race Car with an outstanding 250 horsepower! The 1960 Speedwell Sprite Vintage Race Car is added force to reckon with, as substantially as the 1962 Austin Healey Sprite MK.

3. Austin Mini

Austin Mini boasts of the Mini Cooper that comes in excellent colors and for $13,000, it is quite a steal!

4. TVR

The TVR has this elite collection of artist sports cars like the TVR Tuscan Challenge Race Car, TVR S2 Roadster, TVR Taimar Coupe and TVR 2500M.

5. Birkin

Classic sports automobile is almost synonymous to the brand Birkin, as it is made famous with Louts Super Seven replicas and offers Birkin S3, Birkin C-S3 Street, among other roadsters that come with the Ford ZETEC engine, four-wheeled round brake and a heavy-duty aluminum body.

6. Jaguar

Jaguar is the ‘mighty’ artist sports automobile that men cannot get enough of. With the Jaguar E-type Coupe, Jaguar X-Type Track Car and Jaguar C-Type replica, this is the brand that really pushes artist sports cars several ‘to the limit’.

7. Triumph

Jaguar-engined Triumph roars just as a artist sports automobile is expected to do. Classic models like the 1969 Triumph Spitfire MK III and 1960 Triumph TR3A stand for what Triumph is every about - sophistication and power.

Here are some books that inform the reader on how to keep the artist sports cars in tiptop shape: \"Classic Car Restorer's Handbook,\" \"Fun and Profit Buying, Showing and Selling Vintage and Classic Cars,\" \"Restoration of Antique and Classic Cars,\" \"Budget Auto Restoration: Low Cost, Step-By-Step Tricks\" and \"How to Rebuild and Modify Your Muscle Car.\"

The artist sports automobile exudes action and nobility. No wonder, it never goes discover of style.