Internal Combustion Engine Parts

Taken from exam review word bank

Camshaft

A rotating shaft that controls the opening and closing of the engine's valves, allowing for the proper timing of air and fuel intake and exhaust.

Spark plug

A device that ignites the air-fuel mixture in the engine's combustion chamber by producing a spark. Uses energy from battery to create spark.

Throttle body

A component of the air intake system that regulates the amount of air entering the engine, thereby controlling the engine's power and speed.

Intake manifold

A system of passages that distribute the air-fuel mixture to the engine's cylinders for combustion.

Crankshaft

A rotating shaft that converts the linear motion of the pistons into rotational motion, driving the engine's output.

Main bearings

Bearings that support the crankshaft and allow it to rotate smoothly, while also maintaining proper alignment and minimizing friction.

Wrist pin

A metal pin that connects the piston to the connecting rod, allowing for the pivoting motion of the piston during the engine's operation.

Head

The upper part of the engine that houses the combustion chamber, valves, and spark plugs, also controlling the engine's air-fuel mixture intake and exhaust gas expulsion.

Valve seat

The machined surface in the cylinder head where the valve closes to create a seal, ensuring proper compression and preventing gas leakage.

Accessory belt

A belt that drives various engine accessories such as the alternator, water pump, and air conditioning compressor, ensuring their operation.

Spring

A component that applies pressure to the valve, keeping it closed when not in operation and allowing it to open at the appropriate time during the engine cycle.

Internal Combustion Engine

A type of engine that generates power through the combustion of fuel within its cylinders, converting thermal energy into mechanical work.

Radial

A type of engine configuration where cylinders are arranged in a circular pattern around a central crankshaft, commonly used in aircraft engines.

Valve

A device that controls the flow of gases or fluids in an engine by opening and closing at specific times during the engine cycle.

Timing chain/belt

A component in an internal combustion engine that synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft, ensuring proper timing of the engine's valves.

Bearing

A component that supports and reduces friction between moving parts in an engine, allowing for smooth rotation and operation.

Head gasket

A seal located between the engine block and cylinder head that prevents coolant and engine oil from leaking into the combustion chamber and maintains compression.

Piston rings

Seals the combustion chamber and controls oil consumption in an internal combustion engine.

Combustion chamber

The space within the engine where fuel and air mix and ignite, creating pressure that drives the piston.