Engine valves are mechanical components of the internal combustion engine responsible to control the airflow in the engine. The air inside the valves ignites the fuel that generates energy used for piston movement.
Let’s dissect how engine valves work, their functions and types of engine valves in detail.
Engine Valve Function Explained
Engine valves are mechanical components that allow or stop the flow of fluid or gas during internal combustion.
There are different types of engines that vary according to the number of cylinders (combustion chambers responsible to generate power from the ignition of fuel). They also differ based on the type of operation (2-cycle or 4-cycle), and by the design placement of the valves within the engine (overhead valve OHV, overhead cam OHC, or valve in block VIB).
The pistons move up and down inside cylinders. The engine valves can be found on top of the pistons’ journey. The number of valves depends on the engine manufacturer. Soon after the piston is at the bottom of the cylinder, the intake valve opens up to let the air in, then it closes immediately to keep the cylinder airtight and to build compression.
Once the piston goes through compression, the exhaust valve opens and lets the exhaust out. After the exhaust is out of the engine it closes immediately. If you are wondering about how the valves open and close? A shaft pushes on all the engine valves for this purpose.
This shaft is popularly called a camshaft. If you are unaware of terms like camshafts and other car terms, this glossary on car terminologies will help.
Engine Valve Types Explained
There are two types of engine valves: intake valve and exhaust valve.
Naturally, the intake valve function is to let air in and the exhaust valve function is to let the exhaust gases out from the combustion process after ignition occurs. The more air the engine takes in and out, the more efficient it will be resulting in greater road prowess and power. This is also the reason why engine valves play an essential part in the engine’s level of performance.
That is all about the car engine valve function. Besides, if your car’s engine keeps malfunctioning and you end up in major expenses when getting it fixed, it may be because of its age. Another car with a relatively new engine might be the solution to your problem. Take a look at these used cars for sale in the UAE and select one that suits you best.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more on car parts, their functions and more.
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