BorgWarner has agreed to supply its latest variable cam timing (VCT) system for South Korean company Hyundai. The system, which is designed for improved engine efficiency and fuel economy, will feature in the auto maker’s new Gamma II engine.
For the engine’s intake valve timing, BorgWarner is supplying a variable force solenoid (VFS) and patented passive torsional assist (TA) phaser with mid-position lock (MPL) and integrated center bolt hydraulic control valve. For exhaust valve timing, the company will supply the VFS and TA phaser with integrated center bolt valve.
The 1.6-liter in-line 4 gasoline engine launched in the Kia K3 Forte/Cerato and is expected to power a growing number of vehicles for markets in South Korea, China and North America over the next few years.
“The combination of our TA phasers with MPL technology enables auto makers to employ late intake valve closing strategies for increased fuel economy,” said Joel Wiegert, president and general manager at BorgWarner Morse Systems.
“Following the success of our VCT technology in the Lambda II engine, we are proud to provide localized manufacturing and expand our relationship with Hyundai with this new Gamma II engine program.
“As more customers realize the ease of integration and the fuel economy improvements this technology offers, we expect demand for our MPL technology to grow substantially in the next few years.”
Using BorgWarner’s variable force solenoid, TA phasers utilize oil pressure and cam torque energy for phasing. Its patented MPL technology allows an increased range of camshaft positioning with a default stop at an intermediate position within the expanded range of travel.
Unlike other models that require active control to return to the default position and relock, the passive MPL technology ensures failsafe return to the mid-park position for reliable engine starts in any operating condition. The integrated hydraulic center bolt valve simplifies engine production on the assembly line.