An Experimental Analysis of the Connexion of Engine Fuel Consumption and The Operational Functionality of Engine with or without Thermostat

Abstract

It has become normal practice to remove engine thermostat in an attempt to solve engine overheating problems in Ghana. The aim of this study is to investigate the quality of engine performance and economy in fuel consumption with thermostat-fitted engines as against engines whose thermostat has been removed. The research methodology adopted was the use of experimental research of engine fuel consumption with the presence of an engine thermostat. A laboratory test was conducted for this work. The test was done by fitting an engine with an engine thermostat to see how it impacts on fuel consumption in a vehicle. The research enquired into how internal combustion engine performance characteristics such as engine torque, brake power, indicated power, overall mechanical efficiency and frictional losses are influenced due to the presence of an engine thermostat from an engine. The study established among others that the engine performance, when fan and coolant thermostat were used recorded a progressive change in mechanical efficiency at 52.0% and again engines with thermostat recorded low fuel consumption rate. The study thus recommends that in order to have fuel used efficiently and boost engine performance in motor vehicles, coolant thermostats should not be taken out of the engine in an attempt to address engine overheating problem.