Valves may seem like a simple component, but they have to withstand high performance and temperatures in a performance engine block. Ferrea Racing Components has been a well-known brand since 1970 and is the expert in producing valves focusing on the racing world.

Regarding the best quality valves, Ferrea is often the popular choice. Craftsmanship and decades of experience result in valves that are true masterpieces. In addition to these parts, the brand also produces valve springs, seals, and guides.

Their custom-made service offers various options. Ferrea's professionalism and know-how can be found in every part of the process. This blog discusses the different options in terms of material and detail. Finally, we look at how this custom-made process works.

Their custom-made service offers various options. Ferrea's professionalism and know-how can be found in every part of the process. This blog discusses the different options in material and details. Finally, we look at how this custom-made process works.

Options for perfection

Material

The extreme temperature change around combustion in the engine can cause thermal fatigue in the valves. We are talking of temperatures in the intake manifold to over 870 degrees Celsius in the combustion chamber. The components are, therefore, subjected to high thermal loads, which must be dissipated via the valve stem and disc. The ability of the materials to withstand these considerable thermal variations is crucial to the service life of the valves. The inlet valves do not become as hot as the outlet valves and are usually made of a different material.

Stainless steel or titanium?

For the custom-made option, there is a choice of two materials: stainless steel or titanium. Choosing the right material depends on the application and situations in which the valves will be used.

The titanium valves are certainly the state-of-the-art of the industry. Over the past decade, this program has been expanding continuously, and today, the company uses automated CNC machines to produce custom-made valves with an eye for detail. This means these parts can be ordered by item and at competitive prices.

The titanium valves are equipped with a high-temperature alloy, which, unlike many other brands, is considered a standard option by Ferrea. In addition, these valves receive an additional heat treatment and a stress-relieving treatment that ensures a longer service life and molecular integrity. Producing a valve means that its structure changes at a molecular level. The stress-relieving treatment means that the structure is reinstated and the tension is removed from the material, and therefore, the probability of the valve fracturing will be reduced.

In addition to the base material, various coatings are available, for example, to increase this resistance. This includes a Chrome Nitride (CrN) coating that protects against extreme temperatures, reduced friction, wear protection, and hardness.

Shape

Almost all specifications can be adjusted to the customer's requirements when custom-making valves. The disc diameter, thickness and length of the stem, the number of grooves, etc. Besides creating the perfect performance valve, it is, of course, also possible to copy existing versions. This may be the ideal solution when the part is no longer available.

Hollow valve stem

Weight plays an important role when we want to increase the number of engine revolutions. Ferrea also has 'Hollow Stem Valves' to take advantage of this. The valve stem is hollowed out with a drill and then polished, after which the weight is reduced by 20%!

Made for performance

Ferrea also offers the 'Competition Plus Valve' series, and the characteristics of these valves can also be used in relation to the custom-made program. These valves are aimed at the performance market with a focus on high revs and more horsepower, making these parts ideal for applications such as drag racing and road racing. These valves are made of stainless steel and offer, for example, benefits such as greater tensile strength, more resistance to failure, and longer valve seat life.

From specialist to valve

But how can this dream valve be realized? We start, of course, with our specialist. The people at Wilmink ensure that all your requirements, technical specifications, and accessories are delivered as you expect. For this, our specialist only needs a few details from you:

• The diameter of the valve disc
• The length of the total valve
  
• The diameter of the valve stem
  
• The length of the valve stem end
  
• The valve disc angle
  
• Valve-spring cotter recess
  
• Angle of the valve-spring cotter
  
• Information about your application/engine type

In addition, you can always pass on your requirements regarding your valve that needs to be custom-made to our specialists. You can also send us the original valve or valves should you want them reproduced so that our specialists and the Ferrea specialists can further check the specifications.

Once the application is submitted to the company in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (USA), the data and any examples will be used to produce the custom-made valve. This is improved using Ferrea's design options to achieve the final required result. Currently, this production process takes about 5 to 7 weeks.

Are you interested in Ferrea Racing Components' custom-made service? Contact our performance specialists for more information and the options for your application!