Diesel Engine

An engine is a mechanical device that converts input energy into mechanical motion for performing certain tasks. Engines are used in motor vehicles, industrial settings and several other applications. Most vehicles are powered by internal combustion engines. In this type of engine, a fuel like gasoline, diesel, or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is ignited inside a compressed combustion chamber in the presence of air. The fuel gets oxidized when burnt and the resultant gases expand to push the engine pistons. This resultant action is responsible for the motion of motor vehicles and machinery.

The operation of the diesel engine is based on the Diesel cycle invented by Rudolf Diesel, a German Engineer, in the year 1892. Locomotives and tractors were powered by the diesel engine by 1896. In diesel engines, the fuel ignites after injection into the combustion chamber. The modern diesel engines are either two-stroke or four-stroke, although the four-stroke ones are more popular.

Diesel engines consume less fuel than petrol engines and are much more efficient. These engines often come with turbocharger for improved performance.

Industrial diesel engines are commonly found in production facilities in the UK. Many British ships have marine diesel engines to power them on the high seas. Diesel engine repair work can be done by skilled mechanics in their workshops.