Print this page Internal Combustion Engine
Elie Tawil, PE, LEED AP
Course Outline
The automobile is a familiar object to all of us. The engine that moves, it is one of the most fascinating and talked about of all the complex machines we use today. This course will explain some of the operational principles and basic mechanisms of this machine.
This course is adapted from the Naval Education and Training Professional Development and Technology Center “Basic Machines” NAVEDTRA 14037-training course, Chapter 12 “Internal Combustion Engine”.
This course includes a multiple-choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the understanding of the course materials.
Learning Objective
At the conclusion of this course, the student will:
- Learn the principles of a combustion engine;
- Understand the process of an engine cycle;
- Familiarize with the classifications of engines;
- Understand the construction of an engine;
- Differentiate between the stationary and moving parts of an engine; and
- Familiarize with the auxiliary assemblies of an engine.
Intended Audience
This online PDH course is applicable to engineers, designers, manufacturers and all others who are interested in gaining a better understanding of the basics of an internal combustion engine.
Benefit to Attendees
Attendee of this course will gain a fundamental knowledge about the basics of internal combustion engines.
Course Introduction
We define an engine simply as a machine that converts heat energy to mechanical energy. The engine does this through either internal or external combustion. Combustion is the act of burning. Internal means inside or enclosed. Thus, in internal combustion engines, the burning of fuel takes place inside the engine; that is, burning takes place within the same cylinder that produces energy to turn the crankshaft. In external combustion engines, such as steam engines, the burning of fuel takes place outside the engine.
Course Content
In this lesson, you are required to download and study the following document:
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Course Summary
This course briefly explains the following operational principles and basic mechanisms of the internal combustion engine:
- The power of an internal combustion engine comes from the burning of a mixture of fuel and air in a small, enclosed space.
- The movement of the piston from top to bottom is called a stroke.
- To produce sustained power, an engine must repeatedly accomplish a definite series of operations. This series of events is called a cycle.
- Engine classifications are based on the type of fuel used—gasoline or diesel.
- Design and size must be considered before engine construction.
- Engines require the use of auxiliary assemblies such as the fuel pump, the carburetor, and an electrical system.
Quiz
Once you finish studying the above course content, you need to take a quiz to obtain the PDH credits.
DISCLAIMER: The materials contained in the online course are not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of PDH Center or any other person/organization named herein. The materials are for general information only. They are not a substitute for competent professional advice. Application of this information to a specific project should be reviewed by a registered architect and/or professional engineer/surveyor. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at their own risk and assumes any and all resulting liability arising therefrom.
