Design of w12 Engine
Design of w12 Engine
5th Semester
Introduction
The W12 engine is a high-performance configuration widely recognized for its compact design and
ability to generate significant power output. Comprising twelve cylinders arranged in a “W” layout,
with cylinders arranged at angles of 72o and 102o this engine is often used in luxury and sports
vehicles. The components of such an engine, particularly the crankshaft, connecting rod, piston, and
pin, play a critical role in its functionality, efficiency, and durability.
This project focuses on the detailed design and assembly of these components using SolidWorks, a
robust 3D modelling and simulation software. By leveraging its design capabilities, this study aimed
to achieve precise geometries, ensure component integration, and simulate real-world performance
conditions. Furthermore, stress analysis was performed to evaluate the structural integrity of these
components under typical loading scenarios.
The following report details the methodology used in the design and assembly process, the stress
analysis performed, and the key findings derived from the simulations. It aims to provide insights into
the mechanical performance of a W12 engine's core components and highlight considerations for
their effective design and application in engineering.
Components
The following section provides a detail of the components used in the assembly
Piston Cylinder:
A piston-cylinder assembly was designed and analysed with the following
key specifications:
• The piston pin boss diameter was made sure to be equal to the diameter of the wrist
pin
Using the piston bore and stroke we calculated the Engine displacement (cc) using the following
formula:
𝝅 𝑩𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝟐 𝑺𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒌𝒆
Engine displacement (cc) = 𝟒 × ( 𝟏𝟎
) ×( 𝟏𝟎
)× 𝟏𝟐 = 6000 cc
Connecting Rod:
The connecting rod was modelled with the following specifications:
Wrist Pin:
1. Length = 82 mm
2. Diameter = 33.8mm
• The diameter of the wrist pin was
modelled to be equal to the small end
bore and piston pin boss diameter for
precise alignment
3. Chamfer:
• A 2mm chamfer at 45o angle was made
• Chamfers make it easier to insert the wrist
pin into the piston and connecting rod
Figure 6 Wrist pin
bores and reduce the risk of damaging the pin during assembly
• Chamfers help distribute stress more evenly around the pin, reducing the likelihood
of stress concentrations at sharp edges.
Crankshaft:
1. Total length = 783.5mm
2. Crack pin:
• Diameter = 50mm the diameter of the crack pin was made equal to the diameter of
the upper bearing
• The length of the crack pin was made to be 37mm
3. Main journal bearing:
• Diameter = 50mm
• Used to provide stability
• They provide a smooth and precise bearing surface for the crankshaft to rotate on,
minimizing friction and wear.
• During stress analysis it was fixed in place to avoid buckling of crankshaft
4. Counterweight:
• Used to connect the main journal bearings with the crack pin
• Crank radius = 45mm
5. Crank pin oil hole:
• Used to provide effective lubrication and reduce stress concentration
• Diameter = 4mm
Counterweight
Stress Analysis
The stress analysis was performed using the SolidWorks simulation software. In order to prevent
buckling the main journal bearing of the crankshafts were made fixed as shown in the figure below
Figure 12 Fixtures
After this Pressure of 1MPa was applied upon the 4 power pistons (piston 1,4,8 and 11) and the mesh
was formed, during mesh generation the curvature feature of the simulation software was also used
to get a more precise and accurate mesh as shown in the image below
Mesh information
Mesh type Solid Mesh
Mesher Used: Blended curvature-based mesh
Jacobian points for High quality mesh 16 Points
Maximum element size 51.1797 mm
Minimum element size 2.55899 mm
Figure 13 Mesh Formation
Study Properties
Study name Static 1
Analysis type Static
Mesh type Solid Mesh
Thermal Effect: On
Thermal option Include temperature loads
Zero strain temperature 298 Kelvin
Include fluid pressure effects from Off
SOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation
Solver type Automatic
Inplane Effect: Off
Soft Spring: Off
Inertial Relief: Off
Incompatible bonding options Automatic
Large displacement Off
Compute free body forces On
Friction Off
Use Adaptive Method: Off
Result folder SOLIDWORKS document
(C:\Users\mnazir.ug22smme\Downloads\W12
Semester Project)
Units
Unit system: SI (MKS)
Length/Displacement mm
Temperature Kelvin
Angular velocity Rad/sec
Pressure/Stress N/m^2
Resultant Forces
Components X Y Z Resultant
Reaction force(N) -1.0318 16,325.2 -1.12949 16,325.2
Reaction Moment(N.m) 0 0 0 0
As shown by the above images Pressure along the pistons and crankshaft is minimum. The
connecting rods subjected to Pressure display a much higher Von Mises Stress as shown by the green
and yellow contours while the connecting rods subjected to no Pressure show minimum stress as
the contour is still blue. The maximum stress experienced by the connecting rods is 70MPa which is
lower than the yield strength of the Aluminum 2024 alloy used to make the connecting rod which is
why significant deformation did not occur in the connecting rods.
Discussion
The project required the assembly of a w12 Engine. The 3D model of the parts was made and
assembled in the SolidWorks software. The Aluminum 2024 alloy was selected for the connecting
rod, AISI 1045 steel for the wrist pin etc. Using the SolidWorks simulation software the results were
obtained and the connecting rod did not undergo any significant deformation. The contours obtained
through the stress analysis showed that significant stresses were experienced on the connecting
rods subjected to external Pressure of 1MPa.
Conclusion
This project showcased the importance of precise material selection and simulation in mechanical
design, it also provided us valuable insights into the SolidWorks design and Analysis about engines.
Stress analysis confirmed significant stress distribution but no notable deformation, highlighting the
design's integrity. All in all, the project explains every aspect regarding the design of w12 engine and
stress analysis.
References
1. Heywood, J. B. (1988). Internal Combustion Engine Fundamentals. McGraw-Hill Education.