A tool designed to determine the appropriate size of fuel injectors necessary when converting a vehicle to use E85 fuel, a blend of ethanol and gasoline. It performs calculations based on factors such as the engine’s horsepower, the number of cylinders, desired fuel pressure, and brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC). For instance, if an engine is projected to produce 500 horsepower and operates at a BSFC of 0.65, the device estimates the required injector flow rate in pounds per hour (lb/hr) or cubic centimeters per minute (cc/min).
The employment of such a device offers significant advantages in ensuring optimal engine performance and preventing potential damage. The correct injector sizing ensures proper air-fuel ratios, preventing lean conditions that can lead to engine knock and component failure. It also aids in maximizing power output and fuel efficiency when utilizing the high-octane characteristics of E85. Historically, the reliance on manual calculations or estimations led to inaccuracies and inconsistencies; therefore, the advent of such calculators streamlines the process and enhances precision.