Introduction
Engines are the heart of most vehicles and machines. Two of the most common types are two-stroke and four-stroke engines. This article compares their working principles, advantages, disadvantages, and uses. Engines are used to run motor vehicles and are effective in cars and bikes.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Two-Stroke Engine | Four-Stroke Engine |
|---|---|---|
| Power Cycle | Completes in 2 strokes | Completes in 4 strokes |
| Efficiency | Lower | Higher |
| Maintenance | Simple | Complex |
| Applications | Motorcycles, chainsaws | Cars, trucks |
Two-Stroke Engine
A two-stroke (or two-stroke cycle) engine is a type of internal combustion engine that completes a power cycle with two strokes of the piston (one up and one down movement) in one revolution of the crankshaft. (A four-stroke engine requires four strokes of the piston to complete a power cycle, in two crankshaft revolutions.) In a two-stroke engine, the end of the combustion stroke and the beginning of the compression stroke happen simultaneously, with the intake and exhaust (or scavenging) functions occurring at the same time.
Parts:
- Cylinder
- Piston
- Crankshaft
- Connecting Rod
- Spark Plug
- Carburetor
- Inlet and Outlet Ports
- Transfer Port
- Crankcase
- Flywheel
Four-Stroke Engine
A four-stroke (also four-cycle) engine is an internal combustion (IC) engine in which the piston completes four separate strokes while turning the crankshaft. A stroke refers to the full travel of the piston along the cylinder, in either direction.The four-stroke engine completes a power cycle with four movements of the piston. It is more fuel-efficient, durable, and less polluting, but heavier and costlier.
Parts:
- Cylinder
- Piston
- Crankshaft
- Connecting Rod
- Spark Plug
- Carburetor
- Camshaft
- Timing Belt
- Valves (Intake and Exhaust)
- Flywheel
- Crankcase
- Oil Pump
- Cooling System (Radiator)
- Air Filter
- Fuel Injector
- Exhaust System
