ABSTRACT
The theoretical cycles known as the dual combustion cycle and the standard diesel cycle are considered together with the ideal thermal efficiency of each cycle. Principal differences between diesel and petrol engines are discussed and the fact that the high thermal efficiency means that the diesel engine produces less CO2 than a petrol engine of corresponding size. The three phases of combustion and modern methods of stepped injection receive attention. The effect of turbocharging on brake mean effective pressure and power output. The problem of NOx and particulate matter emissions is discussed.
