The Internal Combustion Engine

Abstract

UNDER this heading, two books on internal combustion engines, one by Prof. W. E. Dalby and the other by Mr. H. R. Ricardo, were recently reviewed in these columns (NATURE, NOV. 28, 1931, p. 886). Mr. Pye's book differs considerably from either of these in scope and outlook. It is a very complete monograph on the theory of the engine. It is written in the clear and attractive style which those who are familiar with Mr. Pye's previous writings have learned to expect from him. The author deals fully with the practical nature and the comparative efficiency of combustion at ‘constant volume’and ‘constant pressure’ the nature of fuels detonation combustion in the cylinder and the effect of various factors on thermal efficiency. There is a final useful chapter on the testing of engines. There is no unnecessary matter in the book, which undoubtedly presents the fullest and at the same time most concise description of the theory of the engine so far as it has been developed by modern research. Mr. Pye naturally draws most of his illustrations of the theory from the results of his own experience with high-speed engines he does not touch on the special practical problems of slow-running engines, but the underlying theory is common to all types.

The Internal Combustion Engine.

By D. R. Pye. (Oxford Engineering Science Series.) Pp. xii + 250. (Oxford: Clarendon Press; London: Oxford University Press, 1931.) 15s. net.