Kütuseõhku

Kütuseõhku refers to the mixture of fuel and air that is essential for combustion in internal combustion engines and other burning processes. This mixture is carefully controlled to achieve efficient and complete burning of the fuel. The ideal ratio of fuel to air, known as the stoichiometric ratio, ensures that all fuel molecules have sufficient oxygen to react with, resulting in maximum energy release and minimal unburnt byproducts.

In gasoline engines, the fuel is typically atomized and mixed with air in the intake manifold or directly injected into the combustion chamber. This process is managed by the engine control unit (ECU), which uses data from various sensors, such as the mass airflow sensor and oxygen sensor, to adjust the fuel-air ratio. A rich mixture, with more fuel than stoichiometric, can provide more power but is less fuel-efficient and produces more emissions. A lean mixture, with less fuel, is more fuel-efficient but can lead to incomplete combustion and potential engine damage if too lean.

Diesel engines operate differently, with air being compressed first, and then fuel injected directly into the hot, compressed air, causing ignition. This process also relies on achieving the correct fuel-air ratio for optimal performance and emissions control, though the control mechanisms differ from gasoline engines. The concept of kütuseõhku is fundamental to the operation of any device that relies on controlled burning for power generation or heating.