The continuously variable transmission (CVT) as used by Flybrid, is mounted between two clutches within the KERS unit. The clutches allow for disengagement of the CVT from the flywheel and the vehicle when not in use, and therefore minimises losses. The only mechanism for controlling energy into or out of the flywheel is by controlling the ratio of the CVT. The CVT is responsible for the smooth variation of ratios. The CVT may sometimes be referred to as a Toroidal Continuously Variable...
Traditional main bearing construction is based on a three-layer bearing made of a steel backing, a hard mid layer and a thin overlay of a soft material. The bi-metal bearing is constructed of only two layers, consisting of a steel backing with an inlay of an aluminium alloy. Typical bearing materials used in the construction of bi-metal bearings are a combination of the following materials: Tin, silicon, lead, copper and aluminium. The bearing material may sometimes be described as...
Invariably measured in crankshaft degrees, the duration of any camshaft is generally accepted to be the number of degrees the valve is lifted off its seat to the instant that it shuts again. Ideally it should open instantaneously to its maximum lift and then remain open until it would be closed again equally quickly. This would produce a square shaped valve motion diagram and cause the maximum amount of charge air or exhaust gas to flow. In real life however, the opening and closing are...
Nickel plating is a common process, but there are two main methods of producing a thin layer of nickel on the surface of a metallic object. The first is to use a traditional electroplating process whereby the parts to be plated are part of an electric circuit and form the cathodes. A rod of the plating metal is used as an anode. These are immersed into a bath of electrolyte commonly containing a salt of the metal to be plated. In the case of nickel plating, the salt used is Nickel...
In a number of previous articles, I have touched on the subject of residual compressive stress, and how this can be helpful to us in increasing the fatigue strength and hence life of components. This allows them to be smaller and lighter than would otherwise be possible for a given life requirement, and as designers and tuners of racing engines, this naturally appeals to us. Light components, most especially those that rotate are becoming more important than ever to the series production...