Petroleummotoren

Petroleummotoren are internal combustion engines that burn petroleum-based fuels to convert chemical energy into mechanical work. The term covers engines that run on petrol (gasoline), diesel, kerosene and other distillates derived from crude oil. They have dominated mobile propulsion since the late 19th century.

In the early days, experiments with liquid fuels led to practical engines culminating in the Otto four-stroke cycle (1876), and Rudolf Diesel's compression-ignition engine (1897). Over the 20th century, refinements such as higher compression ratios, electronic ignition, and fuel injection increased efficiency and power.

Most typical petroleum engines are either spark-ignition, using a spark plug to ignite a petrol-air mixture, or compression-ignition (diesel), where fuel is injected into highly compressed air. Two-stroke and four-stroke configurations exist, with advances such as direct injection, turbocharging, and cylinder deactivation.

Petroleum engines vary in displacement, power, and efficiency but generally convert 20–40% of fuel energy into usable mechanical energy, with losses to heat and friction. Their widespread use raises considerations of emissions, noise, and fuel consumption; modern designs employ catalytic converters, particulate filters, and advanced control systems to reduce pollutants.

Today, petroleum engines remain common in road vehicles, ships, and stationary power generators, though electrification and alternative fuels are shaping future trends. Research continues on emissions control, efficiency improvements, and integration with renewable energy systems.