The spelling of the word "valve gear" is rather straightforward, but its pronunciation may cause some confusion. The stress falls on the first syllable, pronounced as /vælv/. The second syllable is pronounced as /ɡɪər/. In transcription, it may be written as /'vælv ɡɪər/. This term refers to the mechanism that opens and closes the valves in an engine, allowing it to regulate the flow of fuel and air. Proper maintenance of the valve gear is crucial for the engine's performance and durability.
Valve gear is a mechanism found in internal combustion engines, particularly in steam engines and reciprocating engines. It is responsible for controlling the operation of the engine's intake and exhaust valves. The purpose of valve gear is to control the opening and closing of the valves in precise coordination with the engine's piston movement.
In steam engines, valve gear consists of a system of levers, rods, and cams that transmit motion from the engine's crankshaft to the valves. The gear regulates the timing, duration, and lift of the valves, allowing for the entry of steam into the cylinder and the expulsion of exhaust gases. This system determines the engine's speed, power output, and efficiency.
In reciprocating engines, such as internal combustion engines, valve gear refers to the mechanism that controls the operation of the intake and exhaust valves. It typically consists of camshafts, pushrods, rocker arms, and sometimes hydraulic lifters. The camshaft is driven by the engine's crankshaft and rotates to open and close the valves at precise intervals based on the engine's design and performance requirements.
The valve gear in internal combustion engines ensures the proper intake of air-fuel mixture and release of exhaust gases, ultimately facilitating efficient combustion and power generation. It plays a crucial role in regulating engine performance, including factors like timing, lift, and duration of valve operation, and is essential for the smooth running and optimal functioning of the engine.
The word "valve gear" is derived from two different sources.
Firstly, the term "valve" comes from the Latin word "valva", which means "door leaf" or "folding door". Over time, it has been extended to refer to any device that controls the flow of fluid or gas by opening and closing passages. In the context of engines and machinery, valves are devices that control the intake and exhaust of gases or fluids.
Secondly, the term "gear" originates from the Old High German word "gēr", meaning "equipment" or "apparatus". It refers to any mechanical apparatus or device that helps to transmit and control motion or power.
Therefore, "valve gear" can be understood as the mechanism or system of gears that operates and controls the valves in an engine or machine.