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Why doesn't engine oil ignite?

spendlove

New Member
Joined
Oct 22, 2019
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39
Just curious why engine oil, in a backup generator or vehicle for that matter, doesn't ever ignite since its a flammable substance.
 
It does burn.
https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum...r-own-waste-oil-burning-garage-heater.678222/

It doesn't burn in your engine because the surfaces that are in contact with the oil are kept below its vaporization temperature by the cooling system for the engine.
The used oil burning stoves use kerosene or another fuel to heat a vaporization plate hot enough that when oil is dripped on it, the oil vaporizes and ignites. Once the system is going, the oil keeps the plate hot.
 
The flash point of motor oil is roughly 400 degrees. Your car engine runs between 180-220 degrees, not nearly high enough to flash, unless it drips on a hot exhaust manifold.
 
Remembering the Chrysler "Lean Burn Engines". I was employed at service center on the Garden State Parkway. One small distraction was letting a drop of oil off the dipstick onto the manifold of those engines that just roared down about 200 or more miles to hit Resorts Casino in Atlantic City. The pop and flash of fire was mesmerizing.
 
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