Precision Camshaft Measurement

From the Pioneers of Shaft Metrology

Overview

The camshaft is a critical component in internal combustion engines, responsible for precisely controlling the opening and closing of intake and exhaust valves. The accuracy of the features along single overhead, dual overhead, pushrod, roller, flat or variable valve timing camshafts directly impacts engine performance, power output, valve timing, fuel efficiency, and the overall longevity of the engine. Because of this, the precision and reliability of the measurement tools used during manufacturing are essential. Adcole gages are industry-leading instruments specifically designed for camshaft measurement, delivering the high-resolution data needed to ensure quality and consistency. By using Adcole gages, manufacturers can significantly improve camshaft performance and optimize engine output.

The measurable features of a camshaft can be categorized into radial, linear, and face measurements. These apply to both the main journals and the lobes, with journals typically requiring radial, linear, and face evaluations, while lobes are assessed for radial and linear characteristics.

Refer to the section below for a detailed overview of the camshaft parameters that an Adcole gage can accurately measure, helping ensure precision and performance in camshaft manufacturing.

camshaft line drawing

Radial Measurements

Diameter or Radius (LSC, MCC, MIC)
Angle of Max Diameter
2-Point Diameter
Diameter (MRS Outer, MRS Inner)
Roundness (LSC, MRS)
Concentricity
Eccentricity
Height of Lobe at 180º plus Base Circle Radius
Taper (linear, slope, angle)
Lobing
and more…

Linear Measurements

Straightness
Incremental Straightness
Convexity
Concavity
Barreling
and more…

Face Measurements

Z-Positions (Upper & Lower face measured, Center calculated)
Distance to reference face
Width
Runout
Perpendicularity
and more…

On Journal

Chatter
Barreling
Perpendicularity
Material Build-up
Slope
and more…

On Lobes

Concentricity
Lift Error (Base, Circle, Ramps, Nose)
Linear Parallelism
Profile Error
Crown Height at Center
and more…

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