A tool that converts pressure readings, typically from a compression test measured in pounds per square inch (psi), into a compression ratio is crucial for engine diagnostics. This ratio represents the volume of the cylinder at bottom dead center compared to its volume at top dead center. For example, a pressure reading might be used to assess the health of an engine’s cylinders and piston rings.
Determining the ratio from pressure measurements offers valuable insights into an engine’s performance and potential issues. A low ratio may indicate worn piston rings, valve problems, or a blown head gasket, impacting power, efficiency, and emissions. Historically, calculating this ratio required manual calculations using specialized tables and formulas. Modern tools automate this process, providing quick and accurate results, enabling faster diagnostics and more efficient repairs. Understanding this relationship between pressure and volume is fundamental to internal combustion engine analysis.
