Chapter 1
Internal Combustion Engines
Competencies
Explain the classification “small engine” and discuss the
main small engine types.
Describe types of cylinder design and cooling systems.
Explain small engine development history.
Explain energy conversion principles that apply to small
engines.
Explain heat transfer.
List the common energy conversion calculations.
Explain the chemistry of fuel combustion in small engines.
Describe the small engine industry.
Chapter 1 — Internal Combustion Engines
Small Engines
internal combustion engine
converts heat energy from the
combustion of fuel into mechanical energy
rated up to 25 horsepower (HP)
spark ignition or compression
four-stroke or two-stroke cycle
Chapter 1 — Internal Combustion Engines
Engine Design
one, two, or four cylinders
cylinder orientation
vertical, horizontal, or slanted
cylinder configuration
V, horizontally-opposed, or in-line
air-cooled or liquid-cooled
Chapter 1 — Internal Combustion Engines
Development History
gunpowder engine
steam engine
coal gas
internal
combustion
gasoline power
diesel engine
Chapter 1 — Internal Combustion Engines
Heat Transfer
conduction is heat transfer from atom to
atom via molecules in direct contact
convection is heat transfer by currents in
a fluid
radiation is heat transfer that occurs as
radiant energy without a material carrier
Chapter 1 — Internal Combustion Engines
Energy Conversion
Calculations
temperature is the intensity of heat
°C = (°F – 32) ÷ 1.8
°F = (1.8 × °C) + 32
pressure is a force acting on a unit of
area
pressure = force ÷ area
Chapter 1 — Internal Combustion Engines
Energy Conversion
Calculations
torque is a force acting on a
perpendicular radial distance from a
point of rotation
torque = force × radius
work is the movement of an object by a
constant force
work = force × distance
Chapter 1 — Internal Combustion Engines
Energy Conversion
Calculations
power is the rate at which work is done
power = work ÷ time
horsepower (HP) is a measure of power
equal to 76 watts or 33,000 lb-ft per min
HP = work ÷ (time × 33,000)
Chapter 1 — Internal Combustion Engines
Combustion Chemistry
combining of hydrocarbon fuel with
oxygen
a chemical reaction between the
hydrocarbon molecule and atmospheric
oxygen combining at ignition
temperature causes an exchange of
elements that releases heat energy
Chapter 1 — Internal Combustion Engines
Chapter 1 Review
In a typical small engine, approximately
what percent of the energy released is
converted into useful work?
Approximately 30% of the energy is converted
into useful work.
What is horsepower?
Horsepower is a unit of power equal to 33,000
lb-ft per min.