Selection of materials for camshafts

Abstract

Surface hardening heat treatment is applied to make the interior of the part softer, but the exterior harder and more wear-resistant. This surface hardening method is particularly useful in power-transmitting parts such as camshafts or ring gears where a hard outer surface is required. Surface hardening processes are divided into thermochemical processes (changing the composition of the surface with carbon, nitrogen and boron) and rapid quenching from the austenite area to form martensite. In this study, materials selection for camshafts is reviewed and candidates from cast irons and steels are criticized and classical and computerbased methods are employed for the best selection.