Terms Starting with E

Eccentric-Circles having different center points.

Eddy Currents-Small circular currents produced inside a metal core in the armature of a starter motor.  Eddy currents produce heat which is reduced by using a laminated core.

Efficiency-A ratio of the amount of energy put into an engine to the amount of energy coming out of the engine.  Gas engines are about 28-30% efficient.  A measure of the quality of how well a particular machine works.

EGR-Exhaust gas recirculation.  An emission control device that uses an EGR valve to recirculate exhaust gases back into the intake of the engine, thereby cooling the combustion slightly, which in turn reduces nitrogen oxide emissions.

Electric load detector-An electric load sensor is used to detect the exact amount of electrical load required for various components of an engine.

Electrical schematic-An electrical schematic system layout shows the parts, the wires, and the electrical flow of the circuit;

Electrical symbol-A symbol used to identify an electrical part in an electrical schematic.

Electricity-The flow of electrons from a negative point to a more positive point.

Electrochemical-A process in a battery that uses chemical action to produce and store electricity.

Electrolyte-A solution of acid and water used in a battery.  Many types of electrolytes are used, but the most common is sulfuric acid and water.

Electromagnetic induction-Produces electricity by passing a wire conductor through a magnetic field, causing the wire to cut the lines of force, producing electricity.

Electromagnetism-Produces magnetism by using electricity flowing through a wire.

Electron-The negative (-) part of the atom.

Electronic brake control module (EBCM)-The computer used to control antilock braking systems.

Electronic engine analyzer-A testing instrument capable of measuring many readings such as rpm, spark voltage, timing, dwell, vacuum and exhaust characteristics.

Electron theory-Electrons will flow from a negative to a positive point in a circuit.

Emission control-Various devices placed on the vehicle and engine to reduce exhaust pollution.

Energy-The ability to do work.

Engine-The power source that propels the vehicle forward or in reverse. 

Engine dynamometer-A dynamometer (see dynamometer) used to measure brake horsepower of the engine directly.

EPA-Environmental Protection Agency-A U. S. government agency that oversees environmental programs and issues.

Ethanol-A hydrocarbon produced from the distillation of corn, wheat, and so on, for use in making gasohol.

Ether-A highly volatile and flammable, colorless liquid used for starting engines in cold weather.

Evaporator-A component in an air-conditioning system used to heat a refrigerant above its boiling point.

Expansion valve-A component in an air-conditioning system used to create a pressure on one side and reduce the pressure on the other side.

Extreme pressure (EP)-A term used to represent the consistency number of a particular type of grease.


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