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reciprocating engine

technology
Also known as: reciprocating-piston engine

Quick Summary

A reciprocating engine is a type of engine where the back-and-forth motion of pistons is converted into rotational motion, typically by a crankshaft. This design is common in many internal-combustion engines, such as gasoline and diesel engines. In these engines, the combustion of fuel creates pressure that pushes a piston within a cylinder. This linear, or reciprocating, motion is then transformed into the rotary motion needed to power machinery or vehicles. While steam engines also use reciprocating pistons, internal-combustion engines generate power directly from the combustion process within the engine itself.12345

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