What is the primary function of a governor in an engine?

The primary function of a governor in an engine is to maintain engine speed. The governor continuously monitors the engine's rotational speed and adjusts the fuel supply to the engine as needed to keep the speed within a desired range. This is crucial for ensuring efficient and stable operation under varying load conditions. When the load on the engine increases, the governor will increase fuel delivery to compensate, thereby preventing a drop in speed. Conversely, if the load decreases, the governor reduces the fuel supply to prevent overspeeding. This automatic adjustment helps in maintaining optimal performance and protecting the engine from damage that could be caused by excessive speed variations.

Other functions, such as increasing engine power, controlling fuel consumption, or enhancing airflow, are not the primary role of the governor. While these factors can be related to engine performance, the focus of a governor is specifically on speed regulation.