Flashcards on Reciprocating Aircraft Engine Principles

Reciprocating Aircraft Engine Principles: Comprehensive Guide

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How are conventional reciprocating engines classified?

In-line, V-type, radial, and opposed (horizontally opposed).

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Aircraft Reciprocating Engines

12 cards

Card 1

Question: How are conventional reciprocating engines classified?

Answer: In-line, V-type, radial, and opposed (horizontally opposed).

Card 2

Question: How are conventional reciprocating engines classified by cooling method?

Answer: Liquid-cooled or air-cooled.

Card 3

Question: What is the main advantage of a horizontally opposed engine over a radial engine for modern aircraft?

Answer: A much smaller frontal area, making it easier to streamline.

Card 4

Question: Why are valve clearances adjusted on radial engines but not on most horizontally opposed engines?

Answer: Radial engines have solid lifters requiring clearance adjustment; most horizontally opposed engines use hydraulic valve lifters that remove clearance

Card 5

Question: What is the purpose of hydraulic valve lifters in an aircraft engine?

Answer: They keep all the clearance out of the valve operating mechanism, decreasing wear of valve train components.

Card 6

Question: What types of piston rings are used in reciprocating aircraft engines?

Answer: Compression rings, oil control rings, and scraper rings.

Card 7

Question: What is the purpose of oil control rings?

Answer: To control the thickness of the oil film on the cylinder walls.

Card 8

Question: What can result from installing piston rings incorrectly?

Answer: Excessive oil consumption and blow-by.

Card 9

Question: What type of connecting-rod assembly is commonly used in radial engines?

Answer: A master and articulating (articulated) rod assembly.

Card 10

Question: At what speed does the camshaft turn relative to the crankshaft in a horizontally opposed engine?

Answer: The camshaft turns at one half of crankshaft speed.