Crankshafts: Convert Vertical Movement Of Pistons Into A Rotation
Crankshafts: Convert Vertical Movement Of Pistons Into A Rotation

“Choose Your Help Topic Below” . Whether you’re exploring topics related to crankshafts or other technical elements, this guide can assist you in understanding crankshafts better.


So, a crankshaft converts a piston’s vertical (reciprocating) motion, into rotational motion through the connecting rods. As the piston is pushed down by combustion. It pushes on the connecting rod, which is attached to an offset journal (crankpin) on the main shaft of crankshafts.

Consequently, this force causes the crank to turn, similar to a leg pushing a bicycle pedal to turn the crank. The crankshaft’s rotation is then transferred to the transmission, ultimately driving the vehicle’s wheels.

So, How Does It Actually Work:

Pistons and connecting rods:

The engine’s pistons move up and down inside the cylinders. Each piston is connected to the crank by a connecting rod. And, plays a crucial role in how these crankshafts function in the engine system.

Crankshafts:

So, the crank is not a straight shaft. It has offset “crankpins” or rod journals where the connecting rods attach, a key functional part of the crankshafts.

Motion conversion:

  • First, compression drives the piston down. Then, it pushes the connecting rod.
  • Then, the force from the connecting rod pushes on the offset crankpin. Creating torque and turning the crank.
  • As the crank rotates, it pulls the connecting rod upward. Which in turn pulls the piston back up for the next cycle in the operation of crankshafts.

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