Material Considerations for Automobile Camshafts

A variety of materials is currently specified for automobile camshafts. The choice depends on a number of factors, with resistance to surface deterioration the most important. Published research suggests that satisfactory operation of a material depends not only upon the operating conditions of stress, velocity, and lubrication, but also upon the follower material and possibly upon the shape of cam.

Analysis of available evidence, augmented by additional material testing, suggests that two materials could cover the majority of camshaft applications. These are chilled iron for highly stressed applications, and induction-hardened gray iron for applications where stresses are moderate, and concessions can be made to economy.