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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Titanium aluminide automotive engine valves

Conference ·
OSTI ID:225075

The low density and high elevated temperature strength make titanium aluminide alloys an excellent candidate for automotive exhaust valve applications. Lighter weight valve train components allow either improved performance or reduction of valve spring loads which reduce noise and friction, thereby improving fuel economy. The key to successful application of TiAl alloys for automotive engine valves is not optimization of strength and ductility, but rather the development of a low-cost, high-volume manufacturing method. Different manufacturing approaches will be discussed in this paper, along with their advantages and disadvantages. Currently, casting appears to be the lowest-cost alternative that produces adequate material properties and emphasis is being placed on this manufacturing approach. The results of several successful engine tests will also be discussed, including results on a binary TiAl alloy. However, these engine tests have indicated that TiAl alloy valves will require tip protection and stem coating.

OSTI ID:
225075
Report Number(s):
CONF-950201--; ISBN 0-87339-304-X
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English