Pretty cool Axial engine design

[raf2379]

pretty cool design

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c19kn3drdFU

[w squared]

Agreed - that is uber-cool.

I have two questions about it, and I wonder if some of the guys with a bit more knowledge about engine internals have opinions:

#1. There are definitely fewer parts, and I get the advantages to that - but sometimes reducing number of parts will mean adding complexity to those parts. Those five pistons each look to have a U-joint required in the location that they meet the "reciprocator".

#2. With the "monoblock" constantly rotating past the fixed exhaust/intake/spark "manifold" will there be issues with maintaining a good seal?

[Vinman]

Thats pretty cool, I bet we see it in Formula One cars by the end of the decade.

[hps4evr]

Agreed - that is uber-cool.

I have two questions about it, and I wonder if some of the guys with a bit more knowledge about engine internals have opinions:

#1. There are definitely fewer parts, and I get the advantages to that - but sometimes reducing number of parts will mean adding complexity to those parts. Those five pistons each look to have a U-joint required in the location that they meet the "reciprocator".

#2. With the "monoblock" constantly rotating past the fixed exhaust/intake/spark "manifold" will there be issues with maintaining a good seal?

I'd say yes, simple parts seem complicated, but if they can design them to withstand the stresses of high rpm then they should last fine. As to sealing it looks like the whole unit is self contained. Sealing the combustion chamber looks a little tricky.
If they can pull it off then it should be a high rpm performer. Eliminate the valve train and you gain high rpm capability.

[Vinman]

I'd say yes, simple parts seem complicated, but if they can design them to withstand the stresses of high rpm then they should last fine. As to sealing it looks like the whole unit is self contained. Sealing the combustion chamber looks a little tricky.
If they can pull it off then it should be a high rpm performer. Eliminate the valve train and you gain high rpm capability.

I wonder if it will fit in a Fox body?

[hps4evr]

I wonder if it will fit in a Fox body?

Nope... Apparently only LS engines do...

[Vinman]

Nope... Apparently only LS engines do...

 

[w squared]

Sealing the combustion chamber looks a little tricky.
If they can pull it off then it should be a high rpm performer. Eliminate the valve train and you gain high rpm capability.

And that's the kicker.....sealing the combustion chamber.

[Immortal]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRC0dYZiRqg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmqY1VaiMS4

Same idea as an automotive A/C compressor.