Cam-less cylinder head delivered fast by investment casting

Valve actuators for a prototype cam-less cylinder head have recently been made by CRDM by investment casting and delivered to Houghton-Parkhouse in Milnthorpe, Cumbria, which is now trialling it

. Houghton-Parkhouse, run by Michael and Pam Houghton is noted for its transporters, especially those designed for livestock and horses, but also has a patented hydraulic timing and valve lifting system for engines. The cylinder head is about 9kg lighter and 85mm lower height than a conventional head and does away with the need for pressure lubrication. It also has positive opening and closing of the valves, which can be positioned optimally for engine function without requirements for compromise arising from cam shaft positioning or oil feed and scavenging. CRDM – The Centre for Rapid Design and Manufacture in High Wycombe delivered the 16 fully machined, investment cast valve actuators ahead of schedule. Houghton-Parkhouse expects eventually to be able to vary both valve lift and timing for both inlet and exhaust valves. The system is also expected to allow faster engine speeds. CRDM Houghton-Parkhouse