What is the function of an automotive flywheel?
1 Answers
The primary function of an automotive flywheel is to store energy and inertia outside of the engine's power stroke. Located at the power output end of the crankshaft, which connects to the transmission and power equipment, the flywheel possesses significant rotational inertia. Since the power strokes of each engine cylinder are not continuous, the engine speed fluctuates. Below is more detailed information: When the engine speed increases, the flywheel's kinetic energy rises, storing energy; when the engine speed decreases, the flywheel's kinetic energy drops, releasing energy. The flywheel helps reduce speed fluctuations during engine operation. Additionally, the flywheel serves the following purposes: It acts as the driving component in friction clutches; a flywheel ring gear is embedded on its rim for starting the engine; top dead center marks are engraved on the flywheel to calibrate ignition timing or fuel injection timing and adjust valve clearance. Mounted at the rear end of the engine crankshaft, the flywheel utilizes its rotational inertia to store engine energy, overcome resistance from other components, and ensure smooth crankshaft rotation. The clutch installed on the flywheel connects the engine to the vehicle's transmission; it also engages with the starter for easy engine ignition. Furthermore, it serves as the integration point for crankshaft position sensing and vehicle speed sensing.
