Common Types of Camshafts and Their Functionality

Camshafts are a vital component of an internal combustion engine, controlling the opening and closing of intake and exhaust valves to regulate the flow of air and fuel into the engine, as well as the expulsion of exhaust gasses. Understanding the various types of camshafts and their functionality is essential for anyone interested in engines, whether you are a mechanic or an automotive enthusiast. As such, read on as we cover common types of camshafts on the market and their functions.

1. Overhead Camshaft (OHC)

The overhead camshaft (OHC) is a popular choice in modern engines. With this design, the camshaft is positioned above the cylinder head, eliminating the need for a complex system of pushrods and rockers. Moreover, this configuration allows for better valve control, reduced friction, and improved engine efficiency as OHC camshafts are known for their smooth and efficient operation.

2. Pushrod Camshaft

In contrast to the OHC design, the pushrod camshaft employs a system of pushrods and rocker arms to operate the engine's valves. This type of camshaft is commonly found in older engines and some modern high-performance engines. Furthermore, pushrod camshafts tend to have a compact design, making them suitable for engines with limited vertical space. While this design can be more complex, it is favored by enthusiasts for its potential for high-revving and potent performance.

3. Dual Overhead Camshaft (DOHC)

The dual overhead camshaft, or DOHC, is an advanced variation of the OHC design, featuring two separate camshafts: one for the intake valves and one for the exhaust valves. DOHC camshafts offer precise control over valve timing, resulting in improved power and efficiency. This design is commonly seen in performance-oriented vehicles, as it allows for greater airflow and higher RPMs.

4. SOHC Camshaft

The single overhead camshaft, or SOHC, utilizes a single camshaft to operate both the intake and exhaust valves. While it is less complex than the DOHC configuration, it still provides better valve control compared to the pushrod design. As a result, SOHC camshafts are found in a wide range of vehicles, including many economy cars, as they strike a balance between performance and cost-effectiveness.

5. Roller Camshaft

The roller camshaft is designed with specially shaped lobes that reduce friction and wear on the camshaft's surface. These lobes incorporate small roller bearings that come into contact with the valve lifters, ensuring a smoother operation. In turn, roller camshafts are often used in high-performance and racing engines due to their ability to handle high RPMs and provide consistent valve timing. These camshafts are also more durable and require less maintenance than most other types.

6. Bearing Camshaft

Bearing camshafts feature precisely machined bearings that support the camshaft along its length. These bearings reduce friction and wear, allowing the camshaft to rotate smoothly. Additionally, the use of bearings can extend the lifespan of the camshaft and improve engine efficiency. As the bearing camshaft contributes to lower maintenance costs and enhanced durability, this design is common in many modern engines.

7. Axle Camshaft

An axle camshaft is a less common type that utilizes a single, centralized camshaft to control both intake and exhaust valves. This design simplifies the camshaft system, reducing manufacturing costs. These camshafts are often found in smaller engines, such as those in motorcycles and lawnmowers. While axle camshafts may not provide the same level of performance as some other types, they serve their purpose effectively in smaller, less demanding applications.

Conclusion

Whether it is the efficiency of the overhead camshaft, the simplicity of the pushrod camshaft, or the high-revving capability of the roller camshaft, each type of camshaft has a distinct role to play in the realm of automotive engineering. Understanding these common camshaft types and their functionality is essential for anyone interested in engine performance and design, ensuring that the right investment can be made for the project in question.

If you are searching for camshafts or other similar product solutions, Procurement Domain is your one-stop shop with an extensive selection tracing back to leading manufacturers and entities that we trust. With AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B accreditation, you can rest easy knowing that every product you purchase from us is of the highest caliber as a result of our meticulous adherence to industry regulations and practices. Keeping that in mind, get started today to see how we can help you secure all the parts you require.

1. timothy lewis
2. Posted on October 16, 2023
aviation

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