Vmotoren

Vmotoren, or V engines, describe internal combustion engines in which two banks of cylinders are arranged in a V shape around a common crankshaft. The cylinders face away from one another and share a single crankshaft, resulting in a shorter engine length compared to inline configurations with the same number of cylinders. The angle between banks varies, commonly about 60 to 90 degrees, although other angles exist. The arrangement influences vibration, balance, and packaging.

In operation, each bank is fed by its own intake and exhaust; firing order is arranged to balance torque and reduce vibrations. Modern V engines may have overhead camshafts, variable valve timing, and turbocharging. V engines are widely used in automobiles, aircraft, and marine applications due to compactness and high power output for a given overall length.

History and usage: V engines appeared in the early 20th century and developed into common layouts for high-power automotive engines such as V6, V8 and V12, as well as for aircraft and marine applications. The V-angle is chosen to balance vibration, mass, and packaging; six-cylinder designs commonly use 60 degrees, while eight- and twelve-cylinder configurations frequently adopt 90 degrees for improved primary balance.

Advantages and challenges: The main benefits are compact length, favorable weight distribution, and potential for high power with good torque characteristics. Drawbacks include more complex cooling and lubrication requirements, higher manufacturing and maintenance costs, and greater packaging challenges for accessories and exhaust systems.