What is the purpose of a camshaft?

The camshaft rotates in synchronization with the crankshaft, driving the tappets, rocker arms, and other mechanisms via the cams, causing the intake valves to open at the appropriate time to draw in the air-fuel mixture, and the exhaust valves to open at the appropriate time to expel the exhaust gases after combustion.

The design of the camshaft directly affects the engines power output, fuel economy, and emissions levels. Different cam shapes and phase settings can change the duration and angle of valve opening, thereby optimizing engine performance at different speeds.

In summary, the purpose of the camshaft is to precisely control the valve timing process, ensuring efficient and smooth engine operation. It is an indispensable and important component of the car engine.