Custom Intake Manifold Design for Go-Kart Engine

In summary, the speaker is a high school senior interested in mechanical engineering. They are working on a senior project to design a custom intake manifold for a go-kart engine. They have three designs but are unsure which one is the best and are seeking advice and sources for information on fluid dynamics. The speaker is also considering using technologies such as VLIM and VGIM and possibly using airflow simulation software to determine the best design.
  • #1
Dnaudio
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I'm new here saw some information i liked here at one point or another and i decided it would be a nice place to join. I am a hgh school senior and next year i plan to go into mechanical engineering.
For one of my senior projects I am planning on designing and making a custom intake manifold usng ram air theory and maybe some other special things. I have three different designs right now but can't really tell which would be the best design.
This manifold is being made for a small single cylinder in block valve carberated engine on a go-kart. (I know it doesn't need a special intake but couldn't decde on a better project) My three different designs so far are
#1 A runner of L length, determined by a formula goes straight out of the rear and the car is attached to the phelum on the engine, intake facing rear of go kart.
#2 A runner of L length, goes up and to the rear at a 40 degree angle and then the car is attached to a phelum at the end facing the front of the kart.
#3 A runner of L length, is run to the top of the engine with two turns where the carb is then facing towards the front of the car.
My concerns are that first, is #1 will be strouded because it faces rearward at higher speeds although it would be a straight shot to the port, is #2 is too much of a transiton for in coming air and create its own restriction and also allow fuel to separate out, #3 has the most bends but also allows for a better transition with less shrouding.
If anyone has info they could through out it would be really helpful. I need some good sources showing a little of the information since it is a school project. I would also like to hear any new or different design suggestions if you have any since all these plans came out of my head with the little knowledge i know about fluid dynamics.
The Engine is fixed and cannot be moved.
 
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  • #2
Ideally you should look for a design that minimizes turbulence, maximizes flow rate, and keeps the air/fuel mixture as homogenous as possible. You could consider using a bell-mouth or tapered intake to help reduce turbulence at the inlet of the manifold. You should also look into technologies such as Variable Length Intake Manifolds (VLIM) or Variable Geometry Intake Manifolds (VGIM) that allow for the length of the intake to be changed depending on engine speed. Additionally, you could look into airflow simulation software that can help you visualize how air will move through your manifold and determine the best design.
 

1. What is a custom intake manifold and why is it important for a go-kart engine?

A custom intake manifold is a specially designed part of the engine that controls the flow of air and fuel into the engine. It is important for a go-kart engine because it can optimize the engine's performance by increasing power and torque, improving fuel efficiency, and enhancing overall engine responsiveness.

2. How do you design a custom intake manifold for a go-kart engine?

Designing a custom intake manifold involves a combination of engineering principles, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and testing. The process typically begins with analyzing the engine's specifications and performance goals, followed by creating a 3D model of the manifold using CAD software. The design is then tested and refined through simulations and physical prototypes until it meets the desired performance objectives.

3. Can a custom intake manifold be used on any go-kart engine?

In theory, a custom intake manifold can be designed for any go-kart engine. However, factors such as engine size, fuel system type, and performance goals need to be considered when designing a custom intake manifold. It is best to consult with a professional engine builder to determine if a custom intake manifold is suitable for a specific go-kart engine.

4. How does a custom intake manifold improve engine performance?

A custom intake manifold can improve engine performance by optimizing the air-to-fuel ratio, increasing airflow, and reducing restrictions in the intake system. This results in better combustion, which leads to increased power and torque, improved fuel efficiency, and faster engine response.

5. Are there any downsides to using a custom intake manifold on a go-kart engine?

While a custom intake manifold can significantly improve engine performance, there are some potential downsides to consider. These may include increased cost, longer design and testing time, and the need for specialized knowledge and tools to install and tune the manifold. It is important to carefully weigh these factors against the potential benefits before deciding to use a custom intake manifold on a go-kart engine.

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