The discussion centers on energy loss in reciprocating piston engines, particularly during the deceleration of the piston at bottom dead center (BDC) and top dead center (TDC). Participants assert that while some energy is absorbed by the flywheel at low speeds, significant energy loss occurs at higher speeds due to heat dissipation, as defined by the kinetic energy equation K.E. = 1/2 mv². The consensus is that the balanced design of multi-cylinder engines mitigates energy loss, and rotary engines like the Wankel do not demonstrate superior efficiency, contradicting claims of substantial energy loss in piston engines.
PREREQUISITESEngineers, automotive mechanics, and students of mechanical engineering seeking to understand energy dynamics in internal combustion engines and improve engine efficiency.
The issue here is that reciprocating internal combustion engine technology is extremely mature, having well over a century of technological progress and billions of production examples. This area is very well understood and there is an objectively right or wrong answer here. It's not up for a debate or an 'exchange of ideas' in the sense that you can just claim something and have an inherent right to have people seriously consider your idea. If you're going to propose something and then disagree when people correct you, please have a valid reference supporting you.JAlda333 said:I posted the topic for discussion. My goal is not to prove anyone wrong but to exchange ideas/views. If we do not openly share our thoughts, then there will be no discussion. Hopefully, we can all arrive on one conclusion. And if we still cannot agree, I will definitely not be the judge... but perhaps the readers may be able to. Thanks again.