Camshafts

From a purely mechanical standpoint, the task of the camshaft is to convert the rotary motion of the crankshaft into an oscillating motion of the cam follower by means of the cam profile. The shape of the cam profile defines the valve lift and is thus a fundamental adjustment parameter in the design of the gas exchange and thus of the combustion process.

With the ongoing development in lightweight construction and low-friction bearings for the shaft, as well as based on the extended functionality, such as for the variable valve train, the camshaft still has substantial potential for increasing engine efficiency. There is a wide selection of various camshaft designs available for different applications and requirements (such as service life, cost, weight, friction, noise, additional functions).