An engine indicator is used to determine the following: (a) speed (d) m.e.p, and IHP (e) BHP (b) temperature (c) volume of cylinder

Engineering · College · Thu Feb 04 2021

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 An engine indicator is a device used to measure various parameters of an engine's performance. Let's analyze what each of these parameters (mentioned in your question) signifies in the context of an engine indicator:

(a) Speed: This generally refers to the rotational speed of the engine, often measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). An engine indicator typically does not measure speed; instead, a tachometer is used for this purpose.

(b) Temperature: Temperature readings are crucial for monitoring the engine's health, ensuring it operates within safe limits. An engine indicator does not usually measure temperature; this is typically done with thermometers or temperature sensors.

(c) Volume of cylinder: The engine indicator can be used to measure the pressure-volume diagram of an engine cylinder, which in turn can help calculate the volume of the cylinder during various stages of the engine cycle. However, it does not directly measure the geometric volume of the cylinder, which is a fixed structural property of the engine.

(d) M.E.P. (Mean Effective Pressure) and IHP (Indicated Horsepower): The Mean Effective Pressure is an average pressure calculated from the pressure within a cylinder throughout the engine cycle and is a measure of the engine's capacity to do work. Indicated Horsepower is a measure of the power output of an engine without considering the losses due to the engine's components such as the gearbox or alternator. The engine indicator can measure the pressure inside the cylinder during the engine cycle to calculate both M.E.P and IHP.

(e) BHP (Brake Horsepower): This is a measure of the engine's actual output power at the shaft, after accounting for losses due to engine components. It represents the usable power of the engine. BHP is typically measured with a dynamometer, not an engine indicator.

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