Camshaft Adjustment Valves
The camshaft adjustment valve (also known as an oil control valve) is an integral part of the variable valve timing (VVT) system in modern engines. Each manufacturer has different technology and terminology for the system, some of the most recognisable names include VVT, VVTi, VTEC and VTi (For a full list please see Table 1). Many of which have been introduced with iconic VVT milestone vehicles.
There will also be some differences between manufacturers as to how the systems operate but fundamentally the concept remains the same
So what is variable valve timing?
To understand how camshaft adjustment valves operate it is important to first understand the concept of variable valve timing.
In simplest terms, variable valve timing or camshaft adjustment advances or retards the opening times of valves in the engine to adapt to a range of operating conditions and desired results. As a result the operating efficiency of intake and exhaust valves is greatly increased which in turn results in:
- Reduced fuel consumption
- Increased torque at lower engine speed
- Improved horsepower at higher engine speeds
- Internal exhaust gas recirculation
- Reduced harmful exhaust emissions