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I am not well versed in diesel engines. To prove my point, I've learned in the last month that a two-stroke diesel engine actually exists.

My Question.

What kind of diesel engine (four-stroke or two-stroke) is most commonly used in heavy vehicles that we all see roaming about the surface of the planet?

AND

What is the reason a two-stroke or four-stroke engine would be the most used in a particular application?

I would imagine that a two-stroke diesel engine would have a higher emissions footprint, regarding hydrocarbons, than a four-stroke diesel engine due to the way that two-strokes function but this is an assumption on my part.

DucatiKiller
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1 Answers1

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Most small(ish) diesel engines in cars, diggers, generators etc are 4-stroke.

The main reason being efficiency - Although a 2-stroke engine is technically capable of more power output, a 4-stroke engine uses less fuel to produce the same power output.

Many VERY large diesel engines (EG Super-Tankers) are 2-stroke, This is because they are direct drive (propeller shaft attached directly to the crank with no gearing or clutch) these are classed a Low speed engines, and can burn much cheaper Heavy Fuel Oil.

Digital Lightcraft
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