An Explanation for Observed Compression Ratios in Internal Combustion Engines

In this paper comparisons of the compression ratios, efficiencies, and work of the ideal Otto and Diesel cycles are presented at conditions that yield maximum work per cycle. The compression ratios that maximize the work of the Diesel cycle are found always to be higher than those for the Otto cycle at the same operating conditions, although the thermal efficiencies are nearly identical. The compression ratios that maximize the work of the Otto and Diesel cycles compare well with the compression ratios employed in corresponding production engines.