Ignition delay in CI engines — relation to knocking Evaluate the statement: A long ignition delay period in a compression-ignition (diesel) engine produces a rapid pressure rise at the start of combustion and thereby promotes knocking.

Introduction / Context:
Combustion phasing in CI engines has a premixed burn phase followed by diffusion-controlled burning. The amount of fuel accumulated before ignition is primarily decided by the ignition delay. Managing this delay is central to noise control and durability.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Direct-injection diesel at steady load.
• Injection starts before auto-ignition; ignition delay permits premixing.
• No exotic multi-pilot strategies assumed.

Concept / Approach:
When ignition delay is long, a larger portion of the injected fuel premixes with air before ignition. Once ignition starts, this premixed charge can burn very quickly, producing a sharp heat-release spike and a steep pressure rise rate. High pressure rise rates are directly linked with diesel knock intensity.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Longer delay → more premixed fuel mass.Premixed mass ignites almost simultaneously → rapid heat release.Rapid heat release → high dp/dθ and high acoustic excitation → audible knock.Therefore, the statement is correct.

Verification / Alternative check:
Raising cetane number (shorter delay) and using pilot injections to precondition the charge both reduce knock, demonstrating the causal link.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Answering 'No' contradicts well-established diesel combustion theory and measurement of pressure rise rates.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing diesel knock with SI detonation; while mechanisms differ, both are associated with damaging pressure fluctuations.

Final Answer:
Yes