Everybody Chill- Supertech Sodium-Filled Inconel Valves
Billed as the “coolest valves available,” Supertech’s new sodium-filled Inconel/Nimonic valves have an average of 10 percent less mass than solid stem valves and are filled with sodium paste to help transfer heat away form the head of the valve, out to the stem and to the guide.
The new “cool valves” are the latest line of products from Supertech, one of the leading performance engine valvetrain manufacturers, and raises the bar at a time when continuous increases in HP/liter and engine RPMs require more robust engine internals.
“Inconel has never been done in a lightweight, high heat resistant valve,” said Supertech’s Martin Tagliavini. “A cooler valve improves the material strength and durability of the valve, which in turn, gives engine builders more flexibility and a wider range of timing options.”
According to Tagliavini, determining the right valve for each application is critical for reliable, high-performance builds. For general purpose, high performance and street engines up to 280-horsepower, Supertech’s solid forged Stainless Steel valves typically fill the bill. As you increase output or add on forced induction or nitrous, it’s time for sodium valves to better manage heat dissipation.
“If you’re hitting 120-180 hp/liter, then a solid Inconel is a good match. If you’re above this number of 180hp/liter (1,000 hp), then sodium-filled Inconel is recommended,” Tagliavini said. “That is important because excessive heat causes warpage, which leads to improper seating, then more heat problems.”
Until its too late, then it’s a matter of not if the engine is shot, it’s a matter of what else went with it – power train, drive shafts, transfer cases – Tagliavini has heard it all before.
“Unfortunately, a lot of engine builders try to cut corners, and don’t want to spend a few more dollars per part to get the right parts for their build. The results are blown engines,” he said.
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