What are the main components of an engine in terms of mechanisms and systems?
4 Answers
An engine consists of the crank-connecting rod mechanism, valve mechanism, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, fuel supply system, and starting system. An engine is a machine capable of converting other forms of energy into mechanical energy, including internal combustion engines, external combustion engines, jet engines, and electric motors. Introduction to the two main mechanisms: 1. The crank-connecting rod mechanism converts the gas pressure generated after fuel combustion into the rotational torque of the crankshaft through the piston and connecting rod, utilizing the inertia of the flywheel to complete the four auxiliary strokes: intake, compression, power, and exhaust; 2. The valve mechanism opens and closes the intake and exhaust valves in a timely manner according to the engine's working sequence and the requirements of each cylinder's working cycle, allowing the combustible mixture or fresh air to enter the cylinder and expelling the exhaust gases.
I still remember the excitement of dismantling an engine for the first time in my youth. Back then, it felt like a precision orchestra, with two major mechanisms at its core. One was the crankshaft and connecting rod mechanism, converting the up-and-down motion of the pistons into the rotation of the crankshaft, driving the car forward. The other was the valve train, managing the opening and closing of intake and exhaust, like a gatekeeper controlling gas flow. The systems, however, were far more numerous—the fuel system was responsible for supplying fuel, such as the carburetor or fuel injectors; the lubrication system coated parts with oil to reduce wear; the cooling system circulated water to prevent overheating; the ignition system used spark plugs to ignite the gasoline; the starting system employed an electric motor to crank the engine; and the charging system maintained the battery. None of these could be neglected. Once, when I was repairing a car, insufficient lubrication caused the bearings to wear out, costing me hundreds extra. Developing a habit of regularly checking these areas while driving can extend the engine's lifespan many times over.
The engine, in my opinion, is like a meticulously calculated home system. It mainly consists of two major mechanisms: the crank-connecting rod mechanism, which moves the pistons to drive the wheels, similar to the rotating shaft of a fan in a house; and the valve train mechanism, which adjusts airflow, just like a smart window. The system part is more extensive, including the fuel system, which supplies fuel like a gas stove; the lubrication system, which acts as a rust-preventing lubricant; the cooling system, which adds water to prevent overheating; the ignition system, which sparks the reaction; and the starting system, which electrically activates the engine. If any of these fail—for example, insufficient cooling can cause smoke—I've even seen a friend's car break down mid-journey due to neglect of the lubrication system. Regular maintenance is key: change the oil periodically, keep the water temperature within limits, and the car will run as smoothly as new. From my driving experience, understanding these basic structures can make driving more reassuring.
I have a practical understanding of engine components. The two key mechanisms are the crankshaft linkage and the valve train—the former converts motion, while the latter manages the valves. Multiple systems include fuel supply, lubrication maintenance, cooling protection, ignition triggering, and starting operation. If any part fails, such as a clogged cooling system, it can be dangerous, as high temperatures while driving may cause engine damage. During maintenance, regularly check fluids and pipelines to avoid major overhauls.
