Why does an engine not produce the same amount of torque at low RPM?

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I understand that it drops off in the high end because air can’t get into the cylinder fast enough, but what limits are there at low RPMs? Why does an explosion at say 1000 RPM not produce the same torque as one occuring at 3000-4000? And is it the same reason in both gasoline and diesel?

In: Engineering

3 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

There are undoubtedly more than a few reasons, however I’ll attempt to explain briefly the ones I know.

1.) Momentum of air coming from intake manifold. The higher the rpm, the higher the flow rate of air into the cylinder until a point. When the intake valve is opened, the faster the air is flowing, the more can get into the cylinder before the valve closes. This would then create a more powerful explosion and thus more torque. (Comparing between 1000-mid to high range rpm)

2.) Increased mixing – the quicker the air coming into the cylinder, the better the air and fuel would mix to create an essentially better explosion.
Edit: the top of some pistons are shaped in order to enhance mixing

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