A diesel engine is a type of internal combustion engine that operates by compressing air and injecting fuel into the combustion chamber, where the mixture ignites due to the heat generated by the compressed air. This ignition process produces high-pressure gases that expand, driving the piston down and generating mechanical energy.
Unlike gasoline engines, which use spark plugs to ignite the fuel-air mixture, diesel engines rely on the heat of compression to ignite the fuel. This process is known as compression ignition, and it allows diesel engines to achieve higher efficiency and power output compared to gasoline engines.
Diesel engines are commonly used in a wide range of applications, including automobiles, trucks, buses, locomotives, ships, construction equipment, agricultural machinery, and power generators. They are valued for their fuel efficiency, durability, reliability, and ability to generate high torque at low speeds, making them well-suited for heavy-duty and high-load applications. Diesel engines are also known for their longevity and robustness, often lasting for hundreds of thousands or even millions of miles with proper maintenance.
Overall, diesel engines play a crucial role in powering many aspects of modern transportation, industry, and infrastructure, contributing to global economies and everyday life.