Why Are Diesel Engines Ideal for Heavy Vehicles?
Posted on: 18 December 2017
When it comes to choosing a vehicle for personal or commercial use, individuals have to choose between diesel engine vehicles and gas engine vehicles. Both types of vehicle engines are designed with specific purposes in mind, so it is best to do research beforehand if you're considering buying a vehicle for your use. If you're looking to purchase a truck or any other heavy vehicle, you'll find out that the heavy vehicles available on the market come with diesel engines, for the most part.
There are a number of reasons why diesel engines are the preferred choice of engines for trucks and other heavy-duty vehicles. Here are a few you should know of.
Diesel engines provide better torque and horsepower.
Compared to cars and other smaller vehicles, heavy vehicles generally require higher torque and horsepower to meet the demands of everyday vehicle operation. Diesel-powered vehicles enjoy better horsepower and more torque compared to their gas-engine counterparts. Better horsepower and more torque leads to faster accelerations while carrying heavy loads over long distances. Ideally, if you are a driver planning for heavy haulage, diesel engines make a suitable match for your business.
Diesel engines have a higher compression ratio.
In the automobile world, compression ratio refers to the ratio of the total volume of fuel-air mixture in the engine cylinder to the clearance of the same volume. A high compression ratio is suitable for the engine to produce optimal mechanical energy from the fuel-air mixture. Diesel engines, also known as compression ignition engines, limit compression to only air during compression stroke. Essentially, this prevents engine knocking. On the other hand, petrol engines allow fuel and air to be mixed prior to suction. Subsequently, if there is a high compression the temperature of the mixture increases causing auto-ignition. This leaves the engine susceptible to knocking. Diesel engines are, therefore, suitable for achieving high compression ratios without compromising overall vehicle performance.
Diesel engines provide greater longevity.
Due to high compression ratios with diesel engines, a lot of heat is produced for proper combustion. Apart from the normal engine cooling system, diesel engines are built heavier and with sturdier engine parts to withstand the stresses and to produce robust power for heavy vehicles. This explains why they last long when used to haul heavy loads.
The above points are just but a few reasons to explain why diesel engines are a better fit for heavy vehicles. For more information, contact an expert in diesel engines.
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