Antistalling

Antistalling refers to the strategies and mechanisms employed to prevent or mitigate engine stalling, particularly in internal combustion engines. Engine stalling occurs when the engine abruptly stops running, often due to insufficient airflow, fuel, or ignition. In vehicles, this can be a dangerous situation, leading to a loss of power steering and braking assistance.

In automotive applications, antistalling is often integrated into the engine control unit (ECU). This system monitors various engine parameters such as engine speed, throttle position, and manifold absolute pressure. If the ECU detects conditions that could lead to a stall, such as a sudden drop in engine RPM, it can automatically adjust fuel injection or ignition timing to maintain engine operation. For manual transmissions, techniques like feathering the clutch and providing throttle input can help prevent stalling when encountering low engine speeds, such as during uphill starts or in heavy traffic.

In aviation, engine antistalling systems are critical for maintaining control of an aircraft, especially during demanding maneuvers or in challenging atmospheric conditions. These systems can include automated throttle controls that adjust power based on airflow and altitude, as well as sophisticated stall warning indicators that alert the pilot to an impending stall. Proper pilot training also emphasizes techniques to recover from or avoid stalls, such as maintaining airspeed and appropriate engine power. The concept also extends to other types of engines and machinery where maintaining continuous operation is essential.