Pistonmaskiner

Pistonmaskiner, also known as reciprocating engines, are a type of internal combustion engine or external combustion engine that converts pressure into rotating motion. The core component of a pistonmaskin is the piston, a cylindrical component that moves back and forth within a cylinder. This linear motion of the piston is transformed into rotational motion by a connecting rod and crankshaft.

In internal combustion piston engines, fuel is burned within the cylinder, creating rapidly expanding gases that push the piston. This expansion is typically controlled through a cycle of intake, compression, combustion, and exhaust, commonly known as the Otto cycle or Diesel cycle. These engines are widely used in automobiles, motorcycles, and many industrial applications.

External combustion piston engines, such as steam engines, generate heat outside the cylinder to produce steam or another working fluid. This fluid then expands and pushes the piston. Historically, steam engines powered early industrial machinery and locomotives. While less common in modern transportation, they still find use in power generation and some specialized industrial settings.

The efficiency and power output of a pistonmaskin are influenced by factors like engine displacement, compression ratio, fuel type, and design innovations. Despite the rise of other engine technologies, pistonmaskiner remain a dominant force in many areas due to their reliability, cost-effectiveness, and established manufacturing infrastructure.