Our engineering staff has set a new standard for
billet crankshafts. We call it the Krem Factor. It
may sound like some slick sales slogan but in fact
it is the result of considerable research and
development.
The problem facing crankshaft manufacturers is
there are two major forces at play regarding
crankshaft balance. First is rotational mass and the
second is reciprocating mass. Crankshaft designers
over the years have placed more emphasis one or the
other or made ineffective compromises. We do not
focus on only one factor. Instead we look at the
dynamics of the whole rotating assembly via FEA
(Finite Element Analysis) and other very
sophisticated computer programs. This is why when
you look at one of our crankshafts you will notice
subtle differences in the size, shape and
positioning of the counter weights, crank pin design
and finish work.
For many crankshaft manufactures, the solution to
the problem of crankshaft balance is to produce
extremely light-weight cranks with small
counter-weights. This approach usually results in
having to add heavy metal to get the desired bob
weight. While this approach might produce a crank
that will balance at a given bob-weight, it creates
a number of durability problems. Other manufactures,
throw large counter-weights at the problem that can
help with some of the durability issues but
sacrifices power.
We apply an efficient mass/radius counter-weight
design for minimum weight counter balance. We also
produce a maximum strength crankpin with minimum
weight by sculpting and shaping the crank pin to
produce the highest strength at the lightest weight.
This weight savings also reduces the crankshaft
rotating and couple forces which results in less
counter-weight mass. Not only do we establish an
optimum counter-weight mass, we put it in the
correct clocking for the specific application. And
finally we apply an efficient aero design to the
leading and trailing edges of the counter-weight to
negate parastatic losses.
Material choice is extremely important! We use only
the finest TIMKEN 4340 Billet Steel in the
performance crankshaft industry along with a special
nitrating process that takes place at a lower
temperature allowing us to heat treat to a higher
tensile strength. Yes it is more expensive, but in
the end, we deliver a stronger and much more
reliable crankshaft.
