3 of 3

Write now Article Tools

Ah, the Wankel motor. This motor is completely different from the motor you have in your car (unless you have a rotary). Instead of having pistons that move up and down, it has just two (depending on the model) rotors, which are triangle-shaped, that rotate. This motors makes use of momentum, since the rotor is continuously spinning (unless the motor is off), which is unlike a piston motor that actually stops (for a moment, the piston "stops" when it reaches the top or bottom of a stroke. Much like if you were to throw something, it would go up, stop for a moment, and come back down). These motors are able to rev up to 9-10 thousand revolutions per minute (normal piston motor is around 5-6). The only drawback to these motors is that they don't last a very long time. Usually they will need repair after about 80,000 miles.

Learn more about this author, Mario.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Rotary engines?
We want to hear your view. Write now!