8 Advantages of Diesel Engines

Posted Tuesday, Mar 6, 2012 by Allen B. Ury

Since Rudolph Diesel invented his revolutionary internal combustion engine in 1893, diesel engines and conventional spark-driven combustion engines have been locked in competition for favor among the worlds engineers. For most of the past 100-plus years, the two technologies have enjoyed an uneasy peace with light-weight, spark-driven engines dominating the personal transportation, personal marine and early aviation fields, and heavier diesels being the engines-of-choice for larger vehicles like trucks, locomotives, ships and submarines. However, in the past 25 years, lighter-weight diesels have become competitive in automobile manufacturing. In Europe, 50 percent of all new cars are now diesel-powered. Diesel engines use heat created from compression to ignite their fuel instead of the sparks that ignite the airfuel mixtures in conventional gasoline-powered internal combustion engines. But, pound-for-pound, are they really better than gas engines? Many engineers would say yes. Here are eight reasons why diesel engines are better than gasoline motors: 1. Diesels are more efficient. Most gasoline engines convert about 30 percent of their fuel energy into actual power. A traditional diesel converts about 45 percent. And advanced diesels can hit about 50 percent. 2. Diesels are more reliable. Because they dont need high-voltage ignition systems, diesel engines never fail for lack of a spark. They also dont emit radio frequency emissions that can interfere with a vehicles other electronic systems. 3. Diesels run cooler. Because they are more efficient, diesel engines release less waste heat while in operation. 4. Diesels last longer. Diesel engine parts are generally stronger than gas engine components, and diesel fuel has superior lubricating properties. As a result, diesel engines tend to last twice as long as gas-powered ones. 5. Diesel fuel is safer. Diesel fuel doesnt release fumes like gasoline does. Its more difficult to burn and wont explode like its lighter counterpart. 6. Diesels are more easily turbo-charged. Put under sufficient pressure, gasoline engines will spontaneously detonate. By contrast, the amount of super- or turbo-charging pressures diesel engines can endure are limited only by the strength of the engines themselves. 7. Diesels produce minimal carbon monoxide. This makes diesel generators useful in mines and submarines, environments in which gasoline engine exhaust would prove deadly. 8. Diesel engines can easily accept synthetic fuels. Non-petroleum-based biofuels will run easily in diesel engines, whereas gas engines need to be significantly modified to accept such alternative fuels. Learn to Be a Diesel Technician at WyoTech in Laramie, Wyo. If diesel technology excites you, then here's your chance to turn pro. WyoTech offersAdvanced Diesel Technology training at its flagship school in Laramie, Wyo. The 12-month career training program can train you to repair and diagnose problems on the most popular makes of diesel engines. Having completed your Advanced Diesel Technology training, you will be qualified to work in diesel service and repair facilities nationwide.

Real Hands-On Training The WyoTech Advanced Diesel Technology program combines intense academic studies with plenty of real hands-on practice on Peterbilt and Kenworth heavy-duty trucks. All WyoTech Advanced Diesel Technology program instructors are industry professionals with years of experience servicing diesel trucks and engines. Their real-world experience gives them insight into how the modern diesel servicing industry actually operates so students will be better prepared when they enter the working world. Get More Information For more information on Advanced Diesel Technology career training and other automotive career programs, contact WyoTech today! Financial aid is available for those who qualify. For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program and other important information, please visit our website atwww.wyotech.edu/disclosures.