H. M.

Abdullah Bhatti ICE Lab Report 1 2020-ME-101

Valve Timing Diagram of a 4-Stroke Petrol Engine

1 Objective
i. To draw valve timing diagram of a 4-stroke petrol engine.
ii. To compare the actual valve timing diagram with the theoretical diagram.

2 Abstract
This report explains the valve timing diagram for a 4-stroke petrol engine. The valve timing diagram
serves as a visual representation of the connection between the piston's movement and the opening and
closing of the intake and exhaust valves throughout the engine's four cycles. Understanding valve timing
is important for optimizing an engine's performance, efficiency, and emissions.
The report elaborates on the various events that take place during each cycle and how they are illustrated
on the valve timing diagram. It clarifies the importance of valve overlap, which refers to the period
when both the intake and exhaust valves are open simultaneously. The valve timing diagram is a
valuable tool for engineers to analyze engine operation and design camshafts that optimize engine
performance for specific applications.

3 Introduction
A 4-stroke cycle engine is an internal combustion engine that utilizes four distinct piston strokes (intake,
compression, power, and exhaust) to complete one operating cycle. The piston makes two complete
passes in the cylinder to complete one operating cycle. An operating cycle requires two revolutions
(720°) of the crankshaft. The four-stroke cycle engine is the most common type of small engine.

Figure 1: 4-Stroke Petrol Engine

A valve timing diagram is a visual representation specifying the precise moments when valves should
open and close, aligning with the engine's working. The importance of a valve timing diagram lies in
its role in ensuring the engine runs smoothly and efficiently. If the valves don't operate at the right times,
it can lead to reduced power, increased fuel consumption, and overall poor performance. Therefore,
understanding and adjusting the valve timing according to the diagram is crucial for optimal engine
function, making it a key element in the reliability and efficiency of vehicles on the road.

4 Methodology
First the TDC and BDC of the engine are found correctly by rotating the flywheel and the position are
marked on the flywheel. Now the circumference of the flywheel is found by using the measuring tape.
H. M. Abdullah Bhatti ICE Lab Report 1 2020-ME-101

The flywheel is rotated and the point at which the inlet valve start opening is found out, and its position
is marked on the flywheel. Similarly, the position at which it closes is noted. The distances are marked
by using the thread with respect to their dead centers and converted into angles. The same procedure is
repeated for exhaust valve.
The relation between the valve opening and closing can be represented in the form of a circle. The
formula is show below.
Angle = Diameter* 360
Circumference

 = D* 360 Circumference

5 Results
The calculations for first set of reading are done below. The circumference is calculated as 84.0 cm.
 = 10* 360 84 = 42.8
Table 1: Data Recorded from Experiment
Distance from Dead Center Valve Position
Event
(cm) (Degree)
Inlet Valve Open 10.0 42.8
Inlet Valve Close 13.0 55.7
Exhaust Valve Open 10.5 45.0
Exhaust Valve Close 16.0 68.6

6 Discussion
The diagram visually represents the crucial timings for optimal air-fuel mixture intake, compression,
combustion, and exhaust. During the intake stroke, the intake valve opens before the piston reaches top
dead center (TDC) and closes after a significant downward piston movement. In the power stroke, both
valves remain closed while the spark plug ignites the compressed mixture. The exhaust stroke sees the
exhaust valve opening before the piston hits bottom dead center (BDC) and closing after significant
upward movement.

Figure 2: Experimental Valve Timing Diagram of a 4-Stroke Petrol Engine

H. M. Abdullah Bhatti ICE Lab Report 1 2020-ME-101

7 Conclusion
In the actual case, the intake valve opens earlier and closes later, allowing more time for fuel entry,
enhancing combustion efficiency. Compression and expansion durations are adjusted for optimal
pressure and temperature, preventing knocking. Exhaust valve opening in the actual diagram is timed
to ensure complete fuel ignition and efficient gas expulsion. These variations aim to adjust theoretical
model with real-world engine performance, considering factors like combustion time, pressure changes,
and exhaust gas removal for improved efficiency and power output.
The illustrated diagram reveals that in the actual engine, the fuel enters the cylinder for a longer
duration, with the valve opening for 278.5° compared to the standard 225°. This implies a greater fuel
influx in the actual engine. If the valves open for a shorter time, compression may commence before an
adequate amount of fuel is introduced, impacting power production and potentially causing knocking
due to increased pressure and temperature. The compression and expansion phases differ in duration
between the actual and standard engines, influencing pressure and temperature. Excessive compression
can lead to knocking and damage the piston surface. The expansion duration is carefully adjusted to
ensure complete fuel ignition and timely exhaust valve opening. In the actual engine, the exhaust valve
opens for 293.6° to guarantee efficient removal of exhaust gases. This design aims to optimize fuel
combustion, prevent unburnt fuel loss, and ensure the timely expulsion of exhaust gases.