Copyright © 2012, Columbia University Press. The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Evolution of the Internal-Combustion Engine.Environmental Considerations in Engine Design.Engines are rated by their maximum horsepower, which is usually reached a little below the speed at which undue mechanical stresses are developed. The main function of the cylinder is to guide the piston. Cylinder is a part in which the intake of fuel, compression of fuel and burning of fuel take place.

Cylinder is the main body of the IC engine. Other types of internal-combustion engines include the reaction engine (see jet propulsion, rocket), and the gas turbine. It is a container fitted with a piston, where the fuel is burnt and power is produced. Such engines are classified as reciprocating or rotary, spark ignition or compression ignition, and two-stroke or four-stroke the most familiar combination, used from automobiles to lawn mowers, is the reciprocating, spark-ignited, four-stroke gasoline engine. Internal-combustion engine, one in which combustion of the fuel takes place in a confined space, producing expanding gases that are used directly to provide mechanical power.

An introduction to ic engines