Fuel oil penetration into the cylinder of a diesel engine is affected by what factor?

In a diesel engine, fuel oil penetration into the cylinder plays a crucial role in achieving efficient combustion. Finer atomization of the fuel leads to smaller droplet sizes, which enhances the surface area of the fuel in contact with the air. This improved mixing translates to better combustion efficiency, as it allows for more uniform and complete burning of the fuel.

When the fuel is finely atomized, it penetrates more effectively into the combustion chamber, where it can be mixed with the air before ignition. This is particularly important in achieving a strong combustion process, especially under varying load conditions. Better atomization helps avoid issues like excessive smoke or unburned fuel, as it allows for more complete combustion.

In contrast, coarser atomization can result in larger fuel droplets that do not mix thoroughly with the air, leading to inefficient combustion and increased emissions. Thus, finer atomization actually increases the effectiveness of fuel penetration into the cylinder, supporting optimal engine performance.