Polttoainekäyrät

Polttoainekäyrät, meaning fuel curves in Finnish, are graphical representations used to illustrate the relationship between the fuel supply rate and engine operating parameters such as engine speed, load, or throttle position. These curves are crucial in engine tuning and management systems, particularly in internal combustion engines. They help in understanding how much fuel an engine requires under different conditions to achieve optimal combustion and performance.

The horizontal axis of a fuel curve typically represents engine speed (RPM) or a related parameter like manifold pressure or throttle angle, while the vertical axis indicates the fuel flow rate, often measured in units like grams per second or kilograms per hour. Different curves can be plotted to represent various engine states, such as idle, part-throttle cruising, and wide-open throttle acceleration.

Engine control units (ECUs) utilize fuel curves to determine the precise amount of fuel to inject or deliver to the engine. By referencing these pre-programmed curves, the ECU can adjust fuel delivery in real-time to match the engine's demands, ensuring efficient operation, maximum power output when needed, and minimized emissions. Mechanics and tuners use these curves to diagnose fuel system issues and to optimize engine performance for specific applications, such as racing or fuel economy. The accuracy and calibration of fuel curves directly impact an engine's drivability, power delivery, and fuel efficiency.