What is the in-cylinder temperature of a car engine?
3 Answers
The in-cylinder temperature of a car engine is approximately 90°C. Here is some relevant information about car engines: 1. Classification: Based on the working method of the intake system, they can be divided into four types: naturally aspirated, turbocharged, mechanically supercharged, and dual-charged. 2. Principle: A four-stroke gasoline engine mixes air and gasoline in a certain proportion to form a good combustible mixture, which is drawn into the cylinder during the intake stroke. The mixture is compressed, ignited, and burned to generate thermal energy. The high-temperature and high-pressure gas acts on the top of the piston, pushing the piston to perform reciprocating linear motion, and outputs mechanical energy externally through the connecting rod, crankshaft, and flywheel mechanism. A four-stroke gasoline engine completes a working cycle during the intake stroke, compression stroke, power stroke, and exhaust stroke.
I've worked on many engines, and the in-cylinder temperatures can often be shockingly high. For instance, at the moment the spark plug ignites the air-fuel mixture, temperatures can surge above 2000 degrees Celsius. On average, during the compression stroke, it's around 600 degrees, maintaining between 800 to 1000 degrees during combustion. This depends on factors like engine speed, load, and fuel type—gasoline engines run slightly hotter than diesel ones. Excessive temperatures can damage piston rings or valves, shortening engine life. I recommend car owners regularly check the cooling system and replace engine oil and coolant to dissipate heat. It's best not to let the engine idle for long periods in traffic jams, or you might face trouble when the overheating warning light comes on. If you suspect abnormal temperatures, using a professional diagnostic tool to read sensor data is the most reliable approach.
I've driven various cars and found that in-cylinder temperature is far from constant. During compression, it easily exceeds 400°C, and can soar to nearly 1,000°C during the combustion phase. This heat makes the engine casing hot to the touch, but fortunately, coolant, fans, and water pumps work hard to dissipate it and keep it within safe limits. As a car owner, I keep an eye on the temperature gauge and pull over immediately if it runs high. Common causes of overheating include radiator blockages or fan failures, which can often be improved with simple cleaning. I've also tried feeling the hood after long drives—if it's warm, it's normal; if it's too hot, it needs checking. Avoid excessive modifications to the turbocharging system, as it can lead to uncontrolled temperature risks.
