IC Engine Classification by Cylinder Arrangement

Internal Combustion (IC) engines can be classified in various ways based on their design and operation. One common method of classification is based on how the cylinders are arranged within the engine block.

The question asks about the classification to which Horizontal and Vertical engines belong. Let's look at how IC engines are classified:

• Classification by cooling system: Engines can be air-cooled or water-cooled.
• Classification by fuel-feeding system: Engines can use carburettors, fuel injection systems (like MPFI, CRDI), etc.
• Classification by piston strokes: Engines can be two-stroke engines or four-stroke engines.
• Classification by arrangement of cylinders: This classification looks at how the cylinders are positioned relative to each other and the crankshaft. Common arrangements include:
  • Vertical engines: Cylinders are arranged vertically (upright). This is a very common arrangement in cars and many other applications.
  • Horizontal engines: Cylinders are arranged horizontally (lying flat). These are sometimes found in certain industrial applications, motorcycles (like BMW boxer twins), or engines requiring a low profile.
  • Inline engines: Cylinders are arranged in a single line.
  • V-engines: Cylinders are arranged in two banks forming a 'V' shape.
  • Opposed engines (Boxer engines): Cylinders are arranged horizontally opposing each other.
  • Radial engines: Cylinders are arranged radially around a central crankshaft.

The terms Horizontal and Vertical engines directly describe the orientation of the engine cylinders or block. This orientation is a primary aspect of the arrangement of cylinders.

Therefore, Horizontal and Vertical engines are classified based on the arrangement of their cylinders.