SV Electrical Abbreviation

Sleeve Valve

The sleeve valve is a type of valve mechanism for piston engines, distinct from the more common poppet valve. Sleeve valves consist of one or more machined sleeves that slide between the piston and the cylinder wall, with ports that align with the cylinder's ports to control the intake and exhaust of gases. This design offers several advantages, including reduced noise and higher volumetric efficiency, but it is more complex and costly to manufacture than poppet valves.

Historically, sleeve valves were used in some high-performance aircraft engines and luxury automobiles, where their smooth operation and durability were highly valued. Despite their benefits, the complexity and maintenance requirements of sleeve valves have led to their decline in favor of simpler valve mechanisms. However, the sleeve valve remains a topic of interest among engineers and enthusiasts for its unique approach to engine design and potential applications in modern engines seeking to optimize performance and efficiency.