Improved Internal Combustion Engines: Zajac Motors

by Eric Weshoff (Greentechmedia) ...With a longer "residence time" and a constant temperature of 1425 degrees C, their split-cycle engine can make carbon fuels "virtually clean." The engine certainly emits CO2, although only half as much as conventional diesels. The emissions of CO, NOx, and particulates is negligible due to the high heat in the "green combustion" chamber.

Instead of intake, combustion and exhaust taking place in one location, Zajac performs these separate functions in separate places. The distinct combustion chamber leads to better efficiency and much better emissions performance. The secret to making the engine work is in the design of the valves -- the patented Zajec variable timing valves require much less power to operate than conventional valves, which can use up to 10 percent of a conventional engine's horsepower.

The design of this engine allows Zajac to jettison timing chains, mufflers, plugs and catalytic converters. The new design actually adds eight new components but removes 29 other parts.

The constant temperature of 1425 degrees C and constant pressure of 600 psi make this an engine which is "self-cleaning" and one in which the valves "can't get dirty."

According to the firm, the new technology also promises a dramatic increase in fuel efficiency (up to 50 percent more than conventional gas engines) and the ability to change fuels on the fly, without any alterations to the engine or its power rating. READ MORE