What is the full form of DOHC? Its Function and How It Works
The term DOHC may not be unfamiliar to the public, as it often appears on motorcycles and cars. However, not everyone understands what this term means. DOHC is an abbreviation for a type of engine used in vehicles.The full form of DOHC is Double Overhead Camshaft. DOHC is currently widely adopted by car manufacturers worldwide, especially in the production of the latest car models.
So what is the actual function of DOHC? And how does it work? To answer these questions, let's take a look at the following explanation.
What is DOHC?
As previously explained, Double Overhead Camshaft is the full form of DOHC. DOHC itself is a new type of engine developed by automotive experts as a counterpart to SOHC engine type.
Function of DOHC
DOHC has several vital functions in cars. Here are the complete functions.
1. Main driver in the car
The main function of DOHC in cars can be said to be the main driver in generating wheel rotation and power.
2. Improve fuel combustion
The next function of DOHC is to improve fuel combustion for greater efficiency. This certainly has a significant impact on reducing exhaust emissions, making cars more environmentally friendly. This condition occurs because in DOHC car engines, there are two camshafts (camshaft) that control the opening valves in each engine cylinder, allowing for efficient fuel combustion.
3. Enhance engine performance
DOHC engines can provide much greater and more responsive power to engine performance. This happens because there are many opening valves and components that are more precise and accurate. As a result, engine performance will improve.
4. Increase speed
Not only does engine performance improve, but DOHC can also increase the speed of the car. In fact, the car can achieve higher RPM and top speed. This condition occurs because DOHC has four valves (2 fuel valves and 2 exhaust valves) and two camshafts.
How DOHC Works
The DOHC engine in cars has its own way of working, and it is more complex than its predecessor, the SOHC engine (an engine with two valves and one camshaft). The working mechanism of the DOHC engine in cars begins when the piston moves from TDC (Top Dead Center) to BDC (Bottom Dead Center) while the intake valve is open and the exhaust valve is closed. This allows the intake valve to draw air into the combustion chamber.
Next, the piston will move from BDC (Bottom Dead Center) to TDC (Top Dead Center) while the exhaust and intake valves are simultaneously closed. This condition causes the air in the combustion chamber to undergo a compression process.
Before the piston rises to TDC (Top Dead Center), the timing ignition process occurs. This process is marked by the spark plug igniting and burning the air (gas) in the combustion chamber. As a result, the air pressure in the combustion chamber increases, pushing the piston from TDC to BDC. It is at this moment that the power to drive the engine is generated.
Given the complex working of DOHC, it is understandable that this engine is considered superior to other types of engines. However, if the DOHC engine has problems, the maintenance costs can be quite high due to the many components installed and the repair process being more complicated. Speaking of car maintenance, it is best to take your car to the nearest Daihatsu workshop for proper care.
