What is the function of the engine crankcase ventilation system?
2 Answers
The functions of the engine crankcase ventilation system are: 1. To prevent engine oil deterioration and reduce wear and corrosion of engine components; 2. To prevent leakage from the crankshaft oil seal and crankcase gasket, which could cause oil to seep out from these areas; 3. To reintroduce gases that have entered the crankcase back into the cylinder for combustion, thereby preventing various oil vapors from polluting the atmosphere. The crankcase ventilation system includes: natural ventilation and forced ventilation. The reasons for implementing crankcase ventilation are: 1. To prevent excessive crankcase pressure; 2. To extend the service life of the engine oil; 3. To reduce component wear and corrosion; 4. To prevent engine oil leakage.
I've been in the auto repair business for many years. The crankcase ventilation system is essentially designed to prevent excessive pressure buildup inside the crankcase. If that pressure isn't properly controlled, engine oil can leak out, and the engine might even explode or emit smoke, which is quite hazardous. It redirects residual exhaust gases and oil vapors from the crankcase back into the intake manifold through a valve to be burned again. This not only reduces fuel consumption but also prevents sludge buildup inside the crankcase, extending the engine's lifespan. During routine maintenance, I always advise car owners to inspect the ventilation hoses and valve flaps every 10,000 kilometers—don't wait until problems arise. If this system gets clogged or fails, the car will feel sluggish, and fuel consumption can skyrocket by several times. Cleaning it usually doesn't take much time or money, but it's crucial for protecting the entire engine system.