Internal Combustion Engine in Theory and Practice, Second Edition, Revised, Volume 1: Thermodynamics, Fluid Flow, Performance

This is the first of two volumes. It deals, mostly, with the Thermodynamic processes. A lot of information, but requires some engineering background. An important textbook to have in your library, if you are interested in the theory of internal combustion engines. Volume II, which deals with design considerations, is available through MIT Press.

Very well written and extremly in depth. A must have for anyone that wants to know what really makes an ICE work.

Sadly there will be no 3rd edition by Taylor. He died in 1996, at the age of 102. These volumes remain classics. Written by a person whose life spanned most of the development of the internal combustion engine, and who worked for the Wright brothers. The book gives an excellent education in the basic physics of the engine. Nor does the book confine itself to a strict 4 stroke engine. It also covers the two stroke engine, typically found in motorcycles and lawnmowers. The comparison between the 4 and 2 stroke designs are especially illuminating. It gives you an idea of the defining properties of both, and their relative limitations. Perhaps Taylor's estate can find someone suitably talented to co-author a third edition. The second edition dates from 1985, and there have been improvements in this field. Somewhat modest perhaps, but the progress of time makes those changes sufficient to deserve recognition in a book of this repute. Plus, the currently perceived high price of petrol is leading to investigations of improved engine performance, be this in such areas as fuel mixtures or mechanical configuration. Another incentive to update the text.

If you are a engineer looking for a book of formula's...this is your book. However it does little to explain things (such as the how's and why's)...you really must have a backround in mechanical or automotive engineering to understand things. By no means is this a beginners book, far to advanced in theory and mathmatics.I give it 4 stars because I know once I understand the complexity of the subject it will be a useful book...but its not a great teacher.