Technology
The assembly technology developed and patented by ThyssenKrupp Presta Camshafts proved its reliability during many years of volume production. A steel tube is used for assembling of the camlobes, timing rings and other components. Before assembling a component the tube is orientated to the correct angular position. The tube is knurled and the component pushed over the knurling to its correct position. Components are assembled sequentially. This assembly process is a combination of a ‘press and form fit’ and capable of transmitting high torque loads. The tube also acts as the camshaft bearing in the cylinder head. The Presta process for the connection guarantees the transmission of high loads that exceed actual engine specifications.
The use of a steel tube for the camshaft bearings not only results in a weight reduction up to 30%-40%, compared to cast iron camshafts, but also enables the tube bore ‘space’ to be used for the integration of additional functions. For example, an oil feed for a VVT Phaser.
The ThyssenKrupp Presta Camshaft Assembly System offers great advantages not only for camshafts but also for eccentric, intermediate and balancing shafts, with high rigidity and greater scope for design concerning materials and weight optimization.