Bivalent (engine)

In the context of engine technology, "bivalent" refers to an engine designed to operate on two different types of fuel. This capability allows for flexibility in fuel selection based on availability, cost, or environmental considerations.

A bivalent engine typically has a primary fuel it is optimized for, along with the capacity to switch to a secondary fuel source. The switching mechanism can be manual or automatic, depending on the design of the engine and the desired level of user intervention.

The engineering challenges in designing bivalent engines include optimizing combustion for both fuels, managing fuel storage and delivery systems, and ensuring consistent performance and emissions regardless of the fuel being used. Bivalent engines often incorporate sensors and control systems to monitor fuel levels and adjust engine parameters accordingly.

The term "bivalent" should be distinguished from "multifuel" engines, which are designed to operate on a wider range of fuels. While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, "bivalent" typically implies a more focused design for two specific fuel types, whereas "multifuel" indicates a broader compatibility. Examples of fuel combinations used in bivalent engines include gasoline and compressed natural gas (CNG), gasoline and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), or diesel and biogas.