STK Performance camshafts are engineered for high-performance engines where precision, durability, and optimized valve timing are critical. Built using advanced metallurgy and precise manufacturing techniques, these camshafts are the backbone of power delivery in race and modified engines.
1. Types of STK Performance Camshafts
A. Chilled Cast Camshafts
- Manufacturing Process: Chilled casting involves pouring molten iron into a metal mold with chill zones that rapidly cool specific areas (usually the lobe and journal surfaces), producing an extremely hard, wear-resistant surface while maintaining a ductile core.
- Material: Typically high-grade cast iron with alloying elements like chromium, molybdenum, and nickel.
- Use Case: Ideal for race track & street performance where durability is needed.
- Benefits:
- High surface hardness (typically >50-56 HRC)
- Good wear resistance
- Cost-effective
- Excellent compatibility with flat tappet lifters
B. Machined Billet Camshafts
- Manufacturing Process: Billet camshafts are CNC-machined from solid bars (billets) of high-quality steel or tool-grade alloy.
- Material: Commonly EN40B, 8620, 9310, or tool steel (depending on the application).
- Use Case: Racing applications, turbocharged engines, or high-revving performance builds.
- Benefits:
- Extreme strength and durability
- Custom profile flexibility
- Better suited to roller lifters and high-pressure valvetrain setups
- Re-grindable and reparable
2. Camshaft Materials
- Cast Iron Alloys: For chilled cast camshafts; includes additives for wear resistance.
- Chromoly Steel (e.g., 4140, 4340): Excellent strength and fatigue resistance for billet cams.
- Nitrided Steel (e.g., EN40B): Surface hardening adds wear resistance without compromising core toughness.
3. Camshaft Profiles
Camshaft profiles are defined by:
- Lift: How far the valve opens.
- Duration: How long the valve stays open.
- Lobe Separation Angle (LSA): The angle between intake and exhaust lobes, influencing powerband characteristics.
- Ramp Rate: The speed at which the valve opens and closes, affecting engine smoothness and valvetrain stress.
STK Performance offers custom and pre-configured profiles optimized for:
- Naturally aspirated vs. forced induction engines
- Street, strip, or circuit racing applications
- Specific engine platforms
4. Camshaft Blanks
- Chilled Cast Blanks: Used for cost-effective production runs.
- Billet Blanks: Preferred for motorsport and custom cams; CNC precision allows tight tolerances and bespoke profiles.
- Custom Blanks: STK can accommodate limited-run blanks based on customer specifications.
5. STK Performance Advantages
- Tight Quality Control: Ensures consistent hardness, geometry, and surface finish.
- Profile Accuracy: Optimized valve timing for precise power delivery.
- Material Science: Advanced metallurgy for longevity in extreme environments.
- Application Specific: STK engineers tailor camshaft designs to your engine’s compression, induction type, and RPM range.
Applications
- Drag Racing
- Drifting
- Time Attack
- Street/Track Hybrids
- Turbocharged Conversions
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a hardened chilled cast camshaft for a street performance build or a precision CNC billet cam for your track monster, STK Performance camshafts offer cutting-edge technology rooted in real-world motorsport experience. Their range of cam profiles, material options, and machining standards make them a trusted solution for serious engine builders.