How Does a Biodiesel Engine Work?
Mechanical Process
The biodiesel expands and causes the crank shaft to spin by applying pressure to the crank shaft. A rod bearing is attached to the crank shaft. This rod bearing pushes a piston up and down through a connecting rod.This requires an enormous and specialized biodiesel-compatible engine. The biodiesel is burned within the fuel tank. A small amount of gasoline allows the intake valve to open and allow air and gasoline into the oil pan.
Burning Biodiesel
Biodiesel is pumped into the fuel tank. Heat and compression cause the biodiesel to burn.Coolants are used to prevent the expanding gas from over heating the connecting rod. This compresses the biodiesel in the connecting rod, causing the rapid expansion of ignited biodiesel to release more energy. Then the exhaust valve is timed to release exhaust, which travels to the tail pipe.
Valve Train
Overhead cams are attached to a timing belt, which is attached to the crankshaft. As the camshaft rotates, lobes are pushed causing valves to open. The regulates the amount of biodiesel that is released, controlling how fast the car travels. This engine is cooled through the motor oil.
