Title: Controlling the timing chain noise in diesel engines

Authors: J.A. Calvo, V. Diaz, J.L. San Roman, M. Ramirez

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, E.P.S. Carlos III University of Madrid, Avenida de la Universidad, 30 Leganes 28911, Madrid, Spain. ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, E.P.S. Carlos III University of Madrid, Avenida de la Universidad, 30 Leganes 28911, Madrid, Spain. ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, E.P.S. Carlos III University of Madrid, Avenida de la Universidad, 30 Leganes 28911, Madrid, Spain. ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, E.P.S. Carlos III University of Madrid, Avenida de la Universidad, 30 Leganes 28911, Madrid, Spain

Abstract: Timing drive by chain is commonly used in passenger cars especially in diesel engines with double overhead camshafts owing to their numerous advantages compared with belt drive systems. However, one of the important subjects to take into account is the timing chain noise, so-called ||meshing noise|| that can be perceived by the driver. The manufacturer|s efforts to reduce it, are focused on reducing the sprocket-chain vibrations (Young et al., 2003), improving chain performances (www.smartchain.nl), and modifying the resonance frequencies of related parts (Sopouch et al., 2003). However, these efforts could be compromised due to assembly process variation. In this paper, a procedure to assess and control the timing chain noise variation has been suggested.

Keywords: timing chain noise; vibration; whine noise; frequency analysis; order tracking; 1/3 octave; acceleration sensors; engine speed; noise control; vehicle noise; diesel engines; meshing noise; assembly process variation; sound quality; acoustic quality.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVNV.2006.008528

International Journal of Vehicle Noise and Vibration, 2006 Vol.2 No.1, pp.75 - 90

Published online: 28 Dec 2005 *

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