Enhancement of Automotive Engines with β-Ti valve Springs

A β-titanium alloy wire with a tensile strength of 210 kgf/mm² (2060 MPa) was made for automotive valve springs. The fatigue of the β-titanium valve springs were heavily affected with the existence of the oxide layer on the surface. The repeated contact of coils to the ends also gives rise to heavy abrasion during the service, indicating the necessity of some measures to prevent it. Through this investigation, technological basis for β-Ti valve springs was established.