Eaton introduces variable valvetrains for OEMs

Diversified industrial manufacturer Eaton Corporation announces the availability of next-generation variable valvetrain systems for today’s high-speed overhead camshaft engines in India. The company’s new cylinder deactivation and variable valve lift systems will debut with multiple global automakers over the next three years. Eaton’s cylinder deactivation system is designed specifically for engines with overhead camshaft valvetrains and works seamlessly with the engine management system to efficiently reduce engine displacement when full power is not needed. The system is comprised of a deactivation rocker arm and oil control valve. When engine conditions are right, for example in highway cruise, the engine computer gives a command to the oil control valve and the unneeded cylinders shut down to save fuel. “This new fuel efficient product will prove to be of maximum value to our customers,” said Raja Kochar, managing director India. “This move will enhance our business presence in the market and compliment the wide product portfolio that already exists in the country.” “These offerings represent substantial cost savings for the consumer and we are glad to expand our portfolio in India,” said Ramchandra Rao, executive director – India, Automotive Division, Eaton “We optimized the system in response to the growing consumer demand for overhead cam, multi-valve engines.” Eaton’s new variable valve lift systems eliminates the common trade-off between fuel economy and power by providing the ability to switch valve lift profiles to deliver both when required. The system can provide a fuel economy benefit of up to 7 percent when combined with existing cam phaser technology. The variable valve lift system switches modes in the same manner as the cylinder deactivation rocker arm and can be designed as interchangeable to enable the manufacturers maximum flexibility to utilize a family of engines in diverse markets simply by changing the valvetrain components. Eaton Corporation is a diversified power management company with 2010 sales of $13.7 billion. Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2011, Eaton is a global technology leader in electrical components and systems for power quality, distribution and control; hydraulics components, systems and services for industrial and mobile equipment; aerospace fuel, hydraulics and pneumatic systems for commercial and military use; and truck and automotive drivetrain and powertrain systems for performance, fuel economy and safety. Eaton has approximately 73,000 employees and sells products to customers in more than 150 countries.