Simulating cam and follower wear in valve train

Abstract

The paper aims to predict the cam and follower wear in direct acting valve train considering the effects of operating conditions. A numerical approach has been developed using frictional and lubrication analysis which is applied in the cam/follower wear study. Loading and motion parameters have been determined from dynamic and kinematic analysis whereas the wear profiles are obtained by linear wear relation. The wear of cam/follower is largely dependent on the lubrication film thickness, normal loading/contact pressure and sliding velocity. At low camshaft speeds, the wear depth of cam/follower pair is higher whereas it decreases at higher speeds due to relatively thicker oil film. It is an original research work and is strongly believed that it would help to further improve the performance of engine valve train and would also provide an opportunity to control the operating conditions promoting wear.