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Mercedes and Ducati to Cooperate

Mercedes was the only car manufacturer to ever use a desmodromic valve system. They used it in their world beating Grand Prix cars in the 50's. The desmo valve system was known to have some fuel economy advantages for the recent Ducati race bikes, and could have significant advantages with the variable duration and lift cam systems used in modern cars. I am betting that there is some hard core engineering talent Mercedes is getting with the deal, not just a marketing exercise.
 
The desmodromic valve system was superior when conventional valve control had limits because of spring technology. Today, with valve springs being able to handle 15,000+ rpm without starting to float, desmodromic control is really obsolete. Especially, as it has significant disadvantages in street applications and lower cylinder pressures and need hairpin springs to overcome this and completely close the valves.
 
Today, with valve springs being able to handle 15,000+ rpm without starting to float, desmodromic control is really obsolete. Especially, as it has significant disadvantages in street applications and lower cylinder pressures and need hairpin springs to overcome this and completely close the valves.
Click to expand...

yeah, yeah, yeah ... but I'll bet that Duc's going to have bitchin' cup holder. :brow
 
ima4nr said:
The desmodromic valve system was superior when conventional valve control had limits because of spring technology. Today, with valve springs being able to handle 15,000+ rpm without starting to float, desmodromic control is really obsolete. Especially, as it has significant disadvantages in street applications and lower cylinder pressures and need hairpin springs to overcome this and completely close the valves.
Click to expand...

Then of course it's all pneumatic (no springs) on Formula 1 engines.

These days, however, I'd think the internal friction of stiff springs and affect on fuel economy might be of biggest concern and wouldn't be surprised if there hasn't been a relook at desmo actuation in that light.
 
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