What are the methods to improve thermal efficiency?
3 Answers
Methods to improve thermal efficiency include: 1. Reducing friction losses; 2. Enhancing the internal lubrication performance of the engine; 3. Improving the combustion conditions of the engine. Automotive thermal efficiency refers to the ratio between the mechanical work output by the engine and the chemical energy produced by burning fuel, which evaluates how much heat is converted into effective work. When the engine operates, only a small portion of the heat energy contained in the fuel is transformed into propulsion work, while the rest is lost in the form of heat or kinetic energy. The thermal efficiency of most automotive engines ranges between 30% and 38%, and the engine's thermal efficiency is primarily determined by its fuel injection system.
Having driven for twenty years, I've found that improving thermal efficiency mainly relies on driving habits and maintenance. Avoid sudden starts; accelerate gradually to keep the engine running smoothly and reduce heat waste. Use cruise control to maintain a steady speed, especially on highways. Change the oil regularly, opting for synthetic types to minimize engine friction. Check tire pressure—low pressure increases rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Avoid overloading the car with unnecessary weight to reduce the load and save fuel. In summer, use the air conditioning moderately, as the compressor adds extra strain on the engine. Keep the cooling system clean, ensuring the radiator fins are free of dust blockages. These habits are simple to adopt and can lower fuel consumption, saving money. Remember to anticipate road conditions to avoid sudden braking or acceleration, minimizing heat loss into the air.
I often ponder automotive technology, and improving thermal efficiency starts with engine optimization. Installing a turbocharger increases intake air density, making combustion more efficient; direct injection technology ensures precise fuel spraying and uniform mixing; variable valve timing adjusts intake and exhaust timing to reduce energy leakage; using high-efficiency spark plugs ensures timely ignition to enhance combustion rates. The cooling system is crucial—ensure proper coolant circulation to prevent engine overheating; switch to low-viscosity engine oil to reduce internal friction; the electronic control unit fine-tunes fuel injection and ignition timing. In practice, regularly inspect the radiator fan; these modifications make the car more powerful while saving fuel and hassle. Replace the air filter to ensure smooth airflow and prevent blockages.
