4K High-speed camera explains Engine COMBUSTION (12 GIFs)

1

 GIF

Let’s slow the bang inside your engine to see the split-second that moves your car.

2

 GIF

Matt Mikka took a small 3-horsepower flathead engine…

3

 GIF

…then hand built a glass head…

4

 GIF

…and used a ultra high-speed camera to capture awesome footage.

5

 GIF

Seeing the process at 4K
(4,000 Frames per Second)
Is pure eye-candy.

6

 GIF

So let’s fire this baby up and learn the basics.

7

 GIF

Most people understand that gas lights and the explosion turns the tires.
Here’s what you’re looking at…

8

 GIF

FOUR-stroke Engine
This simply means, 1 full cycle has 4 steps.

9

 GIF

Step 1
Intake valve opens – letting air and fuel into the chamber while the piston is moving DOWN
Step 2
Piston moves UP – this compresses the fuel
Step 3
BOOM – fuel is ignited, forcing the piston DOWN
Step 4
Exhaust valve opens – finally the piston moves back UP which forces the exhaust out

10

 GIF

Now let’s change up the fuel from Regular Gasoline to clear Rubbing Alcohol.

11

 GIF

LESS BOOM
This shows combustion in a “Lean state”.
Too much Air too little flammable fuel.

12

 GIF

Rubbing Alcohol – unburned gas leaving the port

13

 GIF

Compare the GIF Above/Below
This shows combustion in a “Rich state”.
Why
Because this time Acetylene – colorless gas – is used for a big BOOM

14

 GIF

Lean state = Less power but better Miles-per-gallon
Rich state = More power but a lot more pollution
Which one do you think Dragster engines use?
Obviously, more BANG.
Now for the car guys/gals???
Which one burns HOTTER???

15

 GIF

For everyone else, just here for the basics;
I hope this gave you a basic once-over on how engine combustion works.
Thanks for taking the time to give ‘er a read. -Rick

16

Check-out Matt Mikka’s full video ABOVE.