staff@slashgear.com (Shane Schmid)
2024-04-15 09:15:56
www.slashgear.com
When looking at variations between a Hemi and a non-Hemi engine design, the former alters the cylinder head to a rounded dome-like shape. This unusual shape affords some benefits over other engine options. The intake and exhaust valves are angled, increasing the pressure within the cylinder walls and lowering the surface area. The reduced surface area of the domed configuration enables more heat generation. The greater the surface area inside the chamber, the more combustion energy is absorbed, reducing power levels.
The half-sphere cylinder head and angled valves also enhance pressure build-up as the piston moves up and down. The rounded shape helps facilitate waves of pressure, creating peak levels inside the combustion chamber and effectively increasing the available space for air, fuel, and exhaust output. With more significant air and fuel in and more exhaust out, the hemispherical configuration on a Hemi can produce impressive output. However, other engine variants are lighter, take up less space, and offer enhanced fuel efficiency.