The valve guide is an important component in the engine valve train, whose main function is to guide the valves (intake and exhaust) to move in a straight line, ensuring precise closure of the valves and valve seat rings, while conducting some of the heat from the valves to the cylinder head. The following is a detailed introduction about valve guides:
1. Structure and Materials
Structure: It is usually a cylindrical hollow tube that is pressed into the guide hole of the cylinder head, and the inner hole is precisely matched with the valve stem.
Material Science:
Cast iron: with good wear resistance and low cost, commonly used in ordinary engines.
Powder metallurgy: containing graphite or copper, with excellent self-lubricating properties, commonly used in modern engines.
Bronze alloy: with outstanding thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance, used for high-performance or high load engines.
2. Core functions
Guidance function: Ensure the valve moves in a straight line, avoiding lateral forces that may cause valve wear or poor sealing.
Heat dissipation: Transfer the high temperature at the valve head (especially the exhaust valve) to the cylinder head to prevent valve overheating.
Lubrication control: The inner hole design should retain an appropriate amount of lubricating oil film, but avoid excessive oil entering the combustion chamber (which may cause carbon deposition or oil burning).
3. Common problems and malfunctions
Excessive wear: The gap between the valve stem and the guide tube increases, leading to increased oil consumption and decreased combustion chamber sealing.
Carbon blockage: Oil residue or fuel impurities may block the guide pipe, affecting valve movement.
Improper installation: Deformation or inaccurate depth during pressing may cause valve sticking or air leakage.
4. Maintenance and replacement
Check the clearance: Use a dial gauge to measure the fit clearance between the valve stem and the guide pipe. If it exceeds the manufacturer's standard, it needs to be replaced.
Replacement steps:
Dismantle the old conduit (using specialized tools or extrusion equipment).
Clean the cylinder head conduit holes.
Press in the new conduit (pay attention to direction and depth, usually requiring a frozen conduit or heated cylinder head for interference fit).
Sharpen or grind the inner hole to match the clearance of the valve stem.
Lubrication suggestion: Apply high-temperature grease during assembly to reduce initial wear.