VARIABLE VALVES . FULL CONTROL .
BGA introduces a complete range of Oil Control Valves ( OCVs ) to the aftermarket . VITAL NEWS finds out more .
Stricter emissions regulations have led vehicle manufacturers to lean towards Variable Valve Technology ( VVT ). By altering the timing of valve lifts , VVT systems allow better performance and fuel economy whilst minimising emissions . Integral to engines fitted with VVT , OCVs
are fully functional valve timing solenoids that control the flow of oil to the VVT system . They are activated when there is a significant load against the engine ( e . g . vehicle carrying additional weight , travelling at an incline or expedited acceleration ).
HOW IT WORKS
The OCV is controlled by the ECU . When an OCV is activated by receiving electrical signals , the oil is sent to lubricate the variable timing chain and gear assembly , based on driving conditions . The spool design used to direct the flow to the VVT sprocket chamber or the top-end of the cylinder head , allows oil to be directed to the variable timing system of the vehicle .
1 SPOOL VALVE This component is located inside the valve housing and its movement controls the flow of oil . The spool valve exterior is engineered with precise tolerances in order to ensure the sizes match the valve housing , leading to smooth displacement with minimal internal bypass leakage of fluid .
2 VALVE HOUSING The spool valve operates within the housing . With critical tolerances , the bore needs to have enough clearance from the spool valve to allow a thin film of fluid to bypass .
If the OCV fails or is blocked , the lack of proper lubrication can cause the chain and gear to fail prematurely . Failing OCV symptoms include :
• Engine light illuminating
• Dirty engine oil
• Rough engine idle
• Poor fuel economy
WHY BGA ?
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BGA offers a comprehensive range of OE quality engine products and components . The extensive experience in engine components has translated to BGA ’ s introduction of over 100 part numbers dedicated
3 SPRING The spring holds the valve in place when the ECU activates the piston to move the spool valve . At the same time , the spring stores the mechanical energy when the valve is opened . This energy is used to move the valve back to its initial position when the ECU is deactivated .
4 SEALS FKM ( fluoroelastomer ) seals have high tolerances to extreme temperatures and a wide variety of chemicals to ensure a perfect seal that protects electric components in the valve from any fluid .
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5 MESH Avoids blockage , poor performance or premature failure by acting like a particle filter that prevents any debris from contaminating the spool valve .
6 ELECTRICAL UNIT The solenoid creates a magnetic field from the electrical current applied to it . This magnetic field attracts or repels the internal components generating the movement of the piston that moves the spool valve within the housing .
to OCVs . This makes it the largest offering in the aftermarket . Other feature points include :
• Product synergy with the timing belt and timing chain systems
• Protective packaging
• Full OE cross referencing
• All makes programme covering Audi , BMW , Citroën , Fiat , Ford , Honda , Land Rover , Mercedes , Nissan , Peugeot , Toyota , Vauxhall and Volkswagen applications
BGA OCVs come with a 24-month warranty and are catalogued on MAM Autocat . For more information , please speak with your local FPS representative .
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10 OIL CONTROL VALVES VITAL NEWS ISSUE 48