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> some engine configurations need a higher octane fuel in order to combust the fuel completely This is incorrect. Higher octane ratings mean a fuel can withsta
by jakogut 6y ago
> some engine configurations need a higher octane fuel in order to combust the fuel completely
This is incorrect. Higher octane ratings mean a fuel can withstand more compression before detonating. Pre-detonation, or "knocking", where an engine experiences detonation in the cylinder before top dead center can cause severe damage, so higher octane is used with higher compression engines. Lower compression engines see no benefit.
- TheRealDunkirk 6y agoIf the fuel pre-ignites, proper flame propagation will be thwarted, and the fuel will not be burned as thoroughly, leaving residue, and exhausting (albeit tiny amounts of) fuel. Sure, I put the cart in front of the horse, but I can always count on HN to point out the pedantic.
- jakogut 6y agoReading this again, you're right, it was a little pedantic. This is one of those topics I feel is just rife with misinformation, so I tend to jump on explanations that don't seem correct at first glance.