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Displacement Formula:
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Engine displacement is the total volume of all the cylinders in an internal combustion engine. It's a key measurement that indicates the engine's size and potential power output, typically measured in cubic inches or liters.
The calculator uses the displacement formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the volume of a single cylinder (π × B² × S / 4) and multiplies it by the number of cylinders to get total displacement.
Details: Engine displacement is crucial for understanding engine performance characteristics, fuel efficiency, emissions, and regulatory classification. It's a primary factor in determining an engine's power potential and torque characteristics.
Tips: Enter the number of cylinders, bore diameter in inches, and stroke length in inches. All values must be positive numbers with bore and stroke typically ranging from 2-6 inches for most engines.
Q1: Why divide by 4 in the formula?
A: The division by 4 comes from the mathematical derivation of cylinder volume where the area of the circular piston is π × (B/2)², which simplifies to π × B² / 4.
Q2: How do I convert cubic inches to liters?
A: Multiply cubic inches by 0.016387 to get liters. For example, 350 cubic inches equals approximately 5.7 liters.
Q3: What's the relationship between displacement and power?
A: Generally, larger displacement engines can produce more power, but efficiency, design, and technology also significantly impact power output.
Q4: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: This formula provides theoretical displacement. Actual working volume may differ slightly due to combustion chamber design, piston shape, and other factors.
Q5: Can I use metric measurements?
A: Yes, but you'll need to convert to inches first or adjust the formula to use millimeters (divide by 1000 to convert mm³ to liters).