Differences Between Internal and External Combustion Engines and Their Examples

You need to know that every motor vehicle uses different types of engines. Motor vehicle engines are divided into two types: internal combustion engines and external combustion engines. So what are the differences between these two engines? And what vehicles use these two types of engines? Here is a complete review.

Overview of Internal and External Combustion Engines

Before you understand the differences between these two engines, it is best to know the definitions of both types of engines:

1. Internal Combustion Engine

This engine has a combustion process inside a closed combustion chamber. Inside this chamber, fuel and air mixture are burned to produce an explosion (mechanical power). This explosion is then used to drive the crankshaft.

This engine has the advantage of being able to save fuel. The disadvantage of this type of engine is that it cannot use just any fuel. For example, if a vehicle is designed to use gasoline, using diesel instead will damage the vehicle's engine.

2. External Combustion Engine

This engine has a combustion process outside the engine. Therefore, it does not require a combustion chamber inside the engine. The advantage of this engine is that it is not picky about fuel. Almost all fuels, whether from fossil or wood, can be used. The disadvantage of this engine is that it takes up more space.

Differences Between Internal and External Combustion Engines

After you have learned a little about these two engines, here are the differences between them.

1. Difference in Fuel Type

The most prominent difference is in fuel usage. For internal combustion engines, the use of fuel must match the type of vehicle.

You cannot be careless in filling fuel; if the vehicle is designed to use gasoline, avoid using other fuels like diesel to prevent damage. Meanwhile, external combustion engines can use almost any fuel, whether solid, liquid, or gas.

2. Difference in Fuel Price

As you know, internal combustion engines have lower fuel consumption costs because they are considered more economical. Although external combustion engines are not picky about fuel, their fuel requirements are generally higher.

3. Difference in Construction

Internal combustion engines are considered to have a simpler and more practical design. This is because combustion occurs inside the engine and does not require additional space outside.

Examples of Internal and External Combustion Engines

After knowing the differences between these two types of engines, here are examples of the application of both engines in a vehicle.

1. Example of Internal Combustion Engine

This type of engine has several models, such as 2-stroke engines, 4-stroke engines, and Wankel engines. Some vehicles that use this engine include motorcycles, cars, trucks, buses, and so on. For fuel type, this engine usually uses diesel or gasoline.

2. Example of External Combustion Engine

Examples of external combustion engines are divided into two: steam engines and Stirling engines. There are several vehicles that use steam engines or boilers, such as steamships, steam trains, and steam airplanes.

Well, that is the difference between internal and external combustion engines, along with examples. I hope the discussion above can enhance your knowledge.

If the internal combustion engine in your vehicle is experiencing problems, immediately visit the nearest Daihatsu dealer or contact a qualified technician.

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