Kütmise

Kütmise is the chemical process of burning a fuel in an oxidizer to release energy, often in the form of heat, light and sound. In Estonian, the term typically refers to the combustion of fuels to produce usable energy, as used in vehicles, heating systems and electricity production. The word comes from the verb kütma, meaning to burn or ignite.

The process involves oxidation of a fuel and the rapid release of energy. Combustion can be complete, producing mainly carbon dioxide and water, or incomplete, generating carbon monoxide, soot and other byproducts. The outcome depends on conditions such as temperature, pressure and the ratio of fuel to oxidizer. Ignition sources vary by application: spark ignition in petrol engines and compression ignition in diesel engines are common in transportation, while burners and furnaces provide controlled combustion for heating and industrial processes.

Kütmise is categorized mainly into external and internal combustion. External combustion occurs when the fuel burns outside the working fluid, as in steam boilers and some power plants. Internal combustion takes place within the engine cylinders or chambers, where the rapid combustion directly drives mechanical work. Fuels used include fossil fuels (gas, oil, coal), biofuels, hydrogen and synthetic fuels. The efficiency and environmental impact of kütmise depend on fuel type, engine or burner design, and emission-control technologies.

Environmental and safety considerations are central to modern use. Combustion releases greenhouse gases and pollutants such as NOx and particulates, leading to regulatory standards and emissions controls (catalytic converters, filters, flue-gas treatment). Safety risks include fire, explosions and hazardous storage. Kütmise remains a fundamental energy mechanism, while ongoing shifts aim to reduce emissions and increase efficiency, including transitions toward electrification and low-carbon fuels in many sectors.