Wankelmoottori

The Wankel engine, also known as a rotary engine, is a type of internal combustion engine that uses a trochoidal rotor instead of a reciprocating piston. Designed by Felix Wankel, it was first successfully developed by NSU in the 1950s. The engine's key component is a triangular rotor that rotates eccentrically within an epitrochoid-shaped housing. This rotation creates three working chambers that simultaneously perform the four strokes of an Otto cycle: intake, compression, combustion (power), and exhaust. As the rotor turns, each face of the triangle sweeps through a complete cycle. This design eliminates the need for valves, crankshafts, connecting rods, and camshafts found in conventional piston engines, leading to fewer moving parts and a more compact and lighter construction. Wankel engines are known for their smooth operation, high power-to-weight ratio, and ability to achieve high engine speeds. However, they have historically faced challenges with fuel efficiency, emissions, and apex seal wear. Despite these drawbacks, Wankel engines have been employed in various applications, most notably by Mazda in their sports cars, and have also seen use in aircraft, motorcycles, and even as range extenders in electric vehicles.