vääntökäyrä

Vääntökäyrä, often translated as torque curve, is a graphical representation of an engine's torque output across its operational speed range. It typically plots torque on the vertical axis and engine speed (revolutions per minute or RPM) on the horizontal axis. This curve provides a visual understanding of how much rotational force an engine can produce at different speeds.

The shape of the vääntökäyrä reveals crucial characteristics of an engine's performance. A peaky curve indicates that the engine produces its maximum torque within a narrow RPM band, suggesting it might need to be revved higher for optimal acceleration. A flatter curve, on the other hand, signifies that the engine delivers strong torque over a wider RPM range, offering more flexibility and often better drivability in everyday situations.

Engine designers strive to optimize the vääntökäyrä to suit the intended application of the engine. For sports cars, a curve that rises sharply and peaks at higher RPMs might be desirable. For trucks or heavy-duty vehicles, a curve that produces high torque at low RPMs is typically preferred for towing and hauling. Understanding the vääntökäyrä helps in selecting the right vehicle for a specific purpose and in appreciating the nuances of engine performance. It is a fundamental tool for engineers and enthusiasts alike.