1. Structural Support:
* Houses the cylinders: The cylinder block is a rigid structure that holds the engine's cylinders in precise alignment.
* Provides mounting points: It provides mounting surfaces for the crankshaft, camshaft, and other vital engine components.
* Supports the engine: The cylinder block is bolted to the vehicle's chassis or frame, providing a solid base for the entire engine.
2. Combustion Chamber Formation:
* Defines the cylinder walls: The cylinder block's internal bore forms the cylinder walls, which contain the combustion process.
* Creates the combustion chamber: Along with the cylinder head, the block defines the shape and volume of the combustion chamber where fuel is ignited.
3. Cooling and Lubrication:
* Provides coolant passages: The cylinder block features internal passages for engine coolant to circulate, removing heat from the combustion process.
* Provides oil passages: It contains passages for engine oil to circulate, lubricating moving parts and reducing friction.
4. Other Functions:
* Mounts the flywheel: The cylinder block often includes a surface for mounting the flywheel, which stores energy and helps smooth out the engine's operation.
* Provides accessory mounting: It often has mounting points for accessories such as the alternator, starter motor, and power steering pump.
In essence, the cylinder block is the backbone of an engine, ensuring its structural integrity, providing a platform for combustion, facilitating cooling and lubrication, and serving as a mounting base for numerous engine components.
