Karburatsioon

Karburatsioon is a term derived from the word "carburetor," a device used in internal combustion engines to mix air and fuel. In a broader sense, karburatsioon refers to the process of creating a combustible mixture of air and fuel for engines, typically those with gasoline-powered internal combustion engines.

The primary function of a carburetor is to atomize liquid fuel and mix it with incoming air in the correct proportion to ensure efficient combustion. This mixture then enters the engine cylinders. The process involves the Venturi effect, where the restriction in the carburetor's throat causes air to speed up, creating a low-pressure area. This low pressure draws fuel from a fuel bowl through a jet, where it is then vaporized and mixed with the airflow.

The air-fuel ratio is crucial for engine performance, fuel economy, and emissions. Carburetors were the standard fuel delivery system for decades but have largely been replaced by electronic fuel injection (EFI) systems in modern vehicles. EFI systems offer more precise control over the air-fuel mixture, leading to improved efficiency and lower emissions.

While less common in new automotive applications, carburetors and the principles of karburatsioon are still found in smaller engines such as those in motorcycles, lawnmowers, and some older or specialized vehicles. Understanding karburatsioon is fundamental to comprehending the operation of these simpler internal combustion engines.