A summary and discussion of some modern problems in internal combustion engineering

One of the first points to note in internal combustion motor operation, whether of the reciprocating or turbine type, is that we are dealing with a mechanism operated directly by forces developed by “explosion” or “combustion.” These two terms “explosion” and “combustion” provide the keys which are being used today to unlock the mysteries of the phenomenon known as “detonation.” Whatever may be the true explanation of this elusive characteristic in fuel reactions with air or oxygen, the reason for its annoying effects on internal combustion motor performance is clear enough. We know that to obtain sweet performance of any mechanism there must be conformity between the rate of application of the force applied at any instant and the velocity of the mechanism at that instant, otherwise much of the energy delivered will be dissipated in impact losses. The more rapid the application of the force and the slower the moving mechanism the greater will be the magnitude of that energy loss. The factors which contribute towards detonation effects are numerous, but those most directly involved may be summarised in order of importance as follows