dieselpropelled

Dieselpropelled is an adjective used to describe propulsion systems or vehicles powered by a diesel internal-combustion engine. It encompasses any mechanism that gains thrust or motion from burning diesel fuel within a piston engine, including direct-drive systems, diesel-electric installations, and diesel-hydraulic transmissions. In common usage it is often contrasted with steam-, electric-, or gas-powered propulsion.

The concept rests on Rudolf Diesel's development of the compression-ignition engine in the 1890s. Diesel engines offer high thermal efficiency and good low-end torque, which made them attractive for maritime, rail, and heavy land transport. By the early 20th century, diesel propulsion began replacing steam for ships and locomotives.

Propulsion architectures include direct mechanical drive where the diesel engine directly turns the propeller or drive wheels; diesel-electric installations where the engine drives a generator that powers electric motors; and diesel-hydraulic or diesel-mechanical arrangements that use transmission systems. The diesel-electric combination is especially common in ships and locomotives due to flexible power control.

Applications include maritime vessels such as cargo ships, tankers, ferries, and patrol craft; rail locomotives; heavy road vehicles like trucks and buses; and certain industrial or marine equipment such as dredgers or pumps.

Advantages include higher fuel efficiency and torque at low speeds, robust reliability, and widespread availability of diesel fuel. Limitations involve higher emissions of NOx and particulates without aftertreatment, weight and maintenance considerations, and sensitivity to fuel quality and supply.