Diesel engines are widely known as the force behind monstrous 18-wheelers and tractors. They are also used in various foreign made vehicles, such as BMWs and VWs. Why was the diesel engine invented? Rudolf Diesel invented the process after he heard about the inefficiencies of gasoline engines. When gasoline engines were first invented in the 19th century, only about ten percent of the fuel used actually moved the vehicle. The rest went to waste. Rudolf Diesel saw an opportunity to make a better, more efficient engine.

How Do Diesel Engines Work?

Gasoline and diesel engines aren’t too different. At their simplest, both are combustible engines. This energy moves pistons contained in cylinders. This motion moves the crankshaft which creates the rotary motion needed to put the car in motion.

Small combustions power both diesel and gasoline engines. Between gasoline and diesel engines, there is a difference in how those explosions happen. Diesel engines switch up the order of events. In a diesel engine, air is compressed first and then the fuel is injected. Diesel engines don’t have spark plugs because air heats up when it’s compressed.

Diesels in the World

In the United States, diesels are mostly found in heavier vehicles. Europe manufactures several models of cars that are powered by diesel. As diesel improves, it’s becoming more and more popular in the United States.

Christian Brothers of New Braunfels

Do you own a vehicle with a diesel engine in New Braunfels? Bring it to Christian Brothers. We have extensive experience with diesel engines.