Skip to content

Fundamentals of Diesel Engines

Fundamentals of Diesel Engines is an online course by Alison US CA that teaches diesel engine operation, thermodynamic cycles, and marine engine design. Priced affordably, it's ideal for aspiring marine engineers or diesel technicians seeking foundational knowledge in high-efficiency engine systems.

● In stock

Buy at Alison →

Price and availability may change. Click to see current details on Alison.

Key features

  • Teaches Otto, diesel, and dual combustion cycles
  • Focuses on marine diesel engines and ship propulsion
  • Explains supercharging and turbocharging terminology
  • Covers engine timing diagrams and operational cycles
  • Details construction of bedplate, frame box, cylinder frame
  • Includes power calculation and dynamometer measurement
  • Discusses RTA96C-14 engine with 108,920 hp output

Pros

  • +Free to access with Alison account
  • +Covers both two- and four-stroke engines
  • +Ideal for marine and industrial applications
  • +Clear explanations of complex thermodynamics
  • +Suitable for entry-level and refresher learning
!

Cons

  • No hands-on or lab component
  • Does not lead to formal certification
  • Limited troubleshooting or repair guidance

About Fundamentals of Diesel Engines

What is Fundamentals of Diesel Engines?

Fundamentals of Diesel Engines is a comprehensive online course offered by Alison US CA, designed to provide learners with a deep understanding of internal combustion and diesel-specific thermodynamic cycles. It covers the evolution and operation of diesel engines from early 1900s models to modern high-output marine variants like the RTA96C-14, which delivers over 108,000 hp. The course explains core concepts such as piston stroke classifications, supercharging, turbocharging, engine timing diagrams, and power development through fuel combustion in cylinders.

Key features

  • Thermodynamic Cycles — Learn Otto, diesel, and dual combustion cycles in historical and modern contexts.
  • Marine Diesel Focus — Study large-scale two-stroke and four-stroke engines used in ships.
  • Power Calculation — Understand theoretical and brake power measurement using hydraulic dynamometers.
  • Engine Components — Explore construction of bedplates, frame boxes, cylinder frames, and more.
  • Efficiency Insights — Discover how engines exceed 50% thermal efficiency at peak economy.
  • Timing & Operation — Master engine cycles, timing diagrams, and event sequences for optimal performance.
  • Single-Propeller Design — Learn why shipowners prefer single-engine/single-propeller configurations.

Who is Fundamentals of Diesel Engines for?

This course suits aspiring marine engineers, diesel mechanics, technical students, and professionals in shipping or heavy machinery. It’s ideal for those seeking foundational knowledge before advancing to hands-on training or certification programs. No prior degree is required, making it accessible to high school graduates and career changers.

How does Fundamentals of Diesel Engines compare?

Unlike generic automotive engine courses, this program emphasizes marine and industrial-scale diesel systems. It dives deeper into two-stroke engine architecture and high-power applications than standard polypropylene rugs or fixed overhead cranes. While not a certification, it offers more technical depth than introductory mechanics videos or community college overviews, positioning it as a strong preparatory resource.

🎯

Best use cases

  • Marine engineering student prep
  • Diesel mechanic career training
  • Technical high school curriculum
  • Industrial maintenance refresher
  • Shipping industry onboarding
🛒

Is Fundamentals of Diesel Engines right for you?

This course is best for beginners or early-career professionals in marine or diesel technology. No prior experience is required. It’s ideal for those seeking foundational knowledge before enrolling in certified programs. Alternatives include paid certification courses or university-level thermodynamics programs, but this offers a cost-effective starting point with flexible online access.

How it compares: Compared to general automotive engine courses, this provides deeper focus on marine two-stroke systems and industrial efficiency. It offers more technical depth than basic YouTube tutorials but lacks the certification value of accredited programs.

More from Alison

?

Frequently Asked Questions

What topics are covered in Fundamentals of Diesel Engines?

The course covers diesel thermodynamic cycles, engine classifications, piston strokes, supercharging, timing diagrams, power calculation, and construction of marine diesel engines including bedplates and cylinder frames.

Does this course include hands-on training?

No, this is a theoretical online course with no physical lab or practical workshop component. It focuses on conceptual understanding of diesel engine operation and design principles.

How is engine power calculated in the course?

It teaches theoretical power calculation and how to measure brake power using a hydraulic dynamometer, providing foundational knowledge for performance evaluation of diesel engines.

Is Fundamentals of Diesel Engines certified?

The course is not an accredited certification. Upon completion, Alison may offer a digital badge or certificate of completion, but it does not replace formal engineering credentials.

Can I access the course for free?

Yes, Alison typically offers this course free to audit. A fee may apply for a downloadable certificate, but core content is accessible at no cost with registration.

Is Fundamentals of Diesel Engines in stock at Alison?

Yes, Fundamentals of Diesel Engines is currently in stock at Alison.

Specifications

Category
Software
SKU
3058
Last updated May 14, 2026