|
|
Posted by Norcal Dave on Thursday, February 14, 2008 at 12:07:28 :
So I was thinking as I lay there last night what is the difference between an industrial engine and an automotive engine. Perhaps I'm using the wrong nomenclature but I'm using the term "industrial" engine to mean an engine that is intended to run constant duty like a generator engine, or perhaps a commercial boat engine (gas or diesel). I'm using the term "automotive" to signify an engine that perhaps is started and stopped, run from Low rpm's upto high rpm's, irregularly as if you were driving from a stop sign to accelerate onto a freeway, then cruise until your exit (again gas or diesel).
Among other engines, I was thinking about the flathead 6 in the powerwagons with the rear PTO option. That seems to be serving as dual purpose, having to run through a regular range of rpm's under load at all rpm's while driving; versus run upto speed then sit under load when using the rear pto. Yesterdays discussion on CAT 3408's and the trolly's stopping and starting, and sitting idling all day; and the diesel fuel washing the oil off the cylinder walls when sitting at idle over long periods, sort of touched on the same thing. I'd enjoy gaining a deeper understanding of the different types of powerplants(gas or diesel of any size) so we can learn to care for our multi-use 230's or whatever, a little better.
So what makes a constant duty, "industrial" engine different than a irregular cycle "automotive" engine?
How are they constructed differently?
Why couldnt a generator engine be used in a car for instance or vice versa?
Am I using the term "industrial" appropriately as I describe it?
Thanks.
Follow Ups: