Obviously, we know that your customers demand the highest engine performance. As it relates to the valve train, we see wear resistance, corrosion resistance, thermal shock resistance, and dimensional stability as the primary challenges driving overall performance. Design elements for the geometry for the valve seat – its width, seat angle, height, etc., and the alloy material for the valve seat become critical elements to performance. Most frequently, excess wear on the seat surface is the greatest performance concern. Common causes of wear phenomena include the mating of the alloys between the valve seat and valve, the amount of heat and pressure created in the valve train, thermal distribution, and the concentric nature of contact between the seat and valve. The potential for leakage via corrosive based elements in the fuel or chamber is also a threat.
- If you have a performance issue you are dealing with or would like more detailed information on this topic and L. E. Jones’ unique alloy solutions to this engine performance challenge, please contact us.