Tribologische Optimierung von Ventiltrieben durch Beschichtungstechnik

The reduction of valve train friction and wear, especially in the cam/tappet system, is an important development target to minimize engine losses and to achieve optimized fuel economy. This reduction can be realised by using amorphous diamont like carbon coatings (DLC). Pre-studies on a pin-on-disk rig and friction measurements on a motored cylinder head test rig gave very positive results. Fuel economy calculations showed, that fuel economy improvements of up to 1% can be achieved by using metal containing carbon coatings. Another positive aspect is the concurrent CO2 emission reduction.