1) How do you decode your engine?~
eg. DA40 is using Lycoming IO360, it means Fuel Injected, Horizontal Opposed engine with 360 cubic inches of displacement. In general, Engine cylinder displacement ÷2 = horsepower rating. Therefore, the DA 40 has a Horse power rating of 180HP.
2) what does horsepower really means?
Horsepower(hp) is a unit of measurement of power, or the rate at which work is done.
Just a power rating to describe how powerful the engine is, by Horse's Power. assume 1 horse provide 745watts (don't need to remember the detail figure! we are pilots not scientist)
3)How does engine works?
Engine simply a device converting Chemical energy(Fuel) to Mechanical Energy (Power) by combustion.
Combustion process:
1) Intake: Intake valve opens; Fuel/Air mixture suck into the cylinder as the piston goes down.
2) Compress:
Fuel/air mixture need to reach to its compression ratio but it can be ignited. (both intake and exhaust valves closed and piston goes up to compress the air)
3) Ignite and power:
As the piston goes up and the fuel/air mixture being compressed, the spark will be introduced and ignite the fuel. As the fuel/air mixture combust, the gas expands and power down the piston; drive the crankshaft.
4)Exhaust:
After the fuel/air mixture combusted, exhaust valve will open and piston will go up to push out the exhaust gas out of the cylinder.