Module 3: IC Engines and Future Mobility
Q1. Explain the working of a 4-stroke diesel engine with a neat sketch.
A 4-stroke diesel engine works in four sequential strokes: suction, compression, power, and exhaust.
During the suction stroke, the inlet valve opens and the piston moves from TDC to BDC, drawing air into the cylinder.
In the compression stroke, both valves close, and the air is compressed to high pressure (35-40 bar) and temperature (500
Near the end of this stroke, fuel is injected into the hot compressed air, causing self-ignition.
This results in the power stroke, where the expanding gases push the piston down, delivering power to the crankshaft.
Finally, in the exhaust stroke, the exhaust valve opens and the piston moves up to expel burnt gases from the cylinder.
This cycle continues repeatedly in a 4-stroke engine.
[Insert diagram of 4-stroke diesel engine]
Q2. Compare electric and hybrid vehicles.
Electric Vehicles (EVs) use electric motors powered by batteries.
They offer quiet, zero-emission operation, ideal for city driving, but are limited by battery range (100–400 km) and require e
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) combine an internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor.
HEVs self-charge through regenerative braking and ICE operation, offering a longer range (500–1000 km) and better fuel e
EVs have lower maintenance needs but require charging stations; HEVs are more versatile in areas with limited EV infrastr
Q3. Describe the components of an electric vehicle with a block diagram.
An electric vehicle includes key components such as:
1. Battery Pack: Stores energy, typically lithium-ion based.
2. Inverter: Converts DC power from the battery to AC for the motor.
3. Electric Motor: AC induction or permanent magnet motor that drives the wheels.
4. Power Converter: Manages voltage and power flow between the motor and battery.
5. ECU (Controller): Governs power distribution and safety systems.
6. Charging Port: Connects the battery to external power for charging.
These components work together to deliver clean, efficient propulsion.
[Insert diagram of electric vehicle block diagram]
Q4. Explain the operation of a 2-stroke engine with a port timing diagram.
A 2-stroke engine completes a power cycle in one crankshaft revolution using two strokes: compression and power.
As the piston rises, it compresses the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber.
Near TDC, the spark plug ignites the mixture, beginning the power stroke.
The piston moves down, uncovering the exhaust port to release burnt gases and the transfer port to admit fresh charge.
This overlapping of intake and exhaust is called scavenging.
The cycle repeats with every revolution, allowing higher power-to-weight ratios.
[Insert diagram of 2-stroke engine port timing diagram]