Has this engine cylinder/ block design be done before,would it work?

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of shrink fitting in artillery guns and whether it could also be used in engine cylinders to reduce material usage while maintaining structural integrity. It is unclear how this method could be applied to engine construction, as the internal pressures in guns are much higher than those in engines and the cost of producing such an engine would not be reduced. Additionally, while older engines used iron sleeves for durability, newer aluminum alloys have eliminated the need for them. Large guns also use shrink fitting for ease of manufacture and replacement of rifled liners.
  • #1
Webbd050
35
4
I believe artillery guns and barrels that are highly pressurised often use shrink fitting (heating up a tube causing it to expand allowing it to be fitted over a smaller tube which it will apply an inward pressure on when it cools) to oppose the pressure from inside the barrel. Could this construction not be used for engine cylinders allowing less material to be used while maintaining structural integrity? Or has it already been done? Thanks
 
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  • #2
It's not clear how the methods of gun construction would lead to less material being used in the construction of piston engines. The internal pressures inside a firing gun are at least a couple of orders of magnitude greater than those found in your everyday four banger. Certainly, the cost of producing such an engine would not be reduced.

Most cylinder blocks are cast with a rough cylinder shape in the mold. The surface of the cylinder is finished by drilling out to the design diameter. In older versions of motors constructed with aluminum blocks, iron sleeves were press-fit into the block to serve as cylinders, since the metallurgy of the time did not permit having aluminum cylinders which could stand up to the wear of the motion of the pistons and rings. I think newer aluminum alloys now allow the iron sleeves to be dispensed with.

Large guns are generally built up from smaller pieces since it is easier to control the manufacture of several smaller pieces than one large forging. Also, the rifled liners in large guns have to be replaced periodically due to wear created when a projectile is fired. Shrink fitting facilitates this replacement.
 

Related to Has this engine cylinder/ block design be done before,would it work?

1. Has this engine cylinder/block design been done before?

This is a common question in the field of engine design, as there are many different designs and configurations that have been used in the past. The answer to this question depends on the specific design in question. It is possible that a similar design has been used before, but it is also possible that it is a unique design.

2. Would this engine cylinder/block design work?

This is a difficult question to answer definitively without more specific information about the design. However, in general, most engine designs go through extensive testing and simulations to ensure they will work properly before being put into production. It is likely that the design has been carefully considered and tested before being proposed.

3. Can you explain the advantages of this engine cylinder/block design?

The advantages of an engine design can vary greatly depending on the specific design and its intended use. Some common advantages of different engine designs include improved efficiency, increased power output, and reduced emissions. It is important to carefully consider the intended use and goals of the engine when assessing its advantages.

4. What potential problems could arise from this engine cylinder/block design?

As with any complex design, there is always the potential for problems to arise. Some common issues that could arise with an engine design include mechanical failures, inefficiencies, and compatibility issues with other components. It is important to carefully consider and address any potential problems during the design and testing phases.

5. How long would it take to implement this engine cylinder/block design?

The timeline for implementing an engine design can vary greatly depending on factors such as funding, resources, and the complexity of the design. In general, it can take several months to years to fully implement a new engine design, as it often involves extensive testing, prototyping, and production processes. It is important to carefully plan and allocate resources to ensure a successful implementation.

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