Arata Kakiuchi

Title: Arata Kakiuchi: An Innovator in Iron-Based Sintered Alloys

Introduction

Arata Kakiuchi is a notable inventor based in Shimotsuga, Japan. With a strong portfolio consisting of six patents, he has made significant contributions to the field of iron-based sintered alloys, particularly in applications for valve seats in internal combustion engines.

Latest Patents

Kakiuchi's most recent innovations revolve around two key patents. The first patent introduces an iron-based sintered alloy material specifically designed for valve seats, which boasts improved wear resistance and reduced aggressibility to mating valves. This alloy features a composition containing 10% to 20% by area of first hard particles and 15% to 35% by area of second hard particles, totaling 25% to 55% area coverage. The first hard particles, composed of a cobalt-based intermetallic compound, measure between 10 to 150 µm and exhibit hardness values ranging from 500HV0.1 to below 800HV0.1. Similarly, the second hard particles also consist of cobalt-based intermetallic compounds, with hardness values between 800HV0.1 and just below 1100HV0.1. Additionally, the inclusion of solid lubricant particles enhances the performance of the alloy.

The second patent features a sintered alloy valve seat and details a method for its manufacturing. This design is specifically tailored for a cylinder head of an internal combustion engine, consisting of a valve-seating section and a head-seating section that are formed monolithically through a sintering process to create a robust double-layer structure. The valve-seating section incorporates a first iron-based sintered alloy member, characterized by a porosity of 10 to 25 percent by volume and a sintered density between 6.1 to 7.1 g/cm³. Meanwhile, the head-seating section comprises a second iron-based sintered alloy member, with a porosity of 10 to 20 percent by volume and a sintered density ranging from 6.4 to 7.1 g/cm³.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Kakiuchi has been associated with key companies in the automotive industry, including Nippon Piston Ring Co., Ltd. and Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha. His work has significantly influenced the production and performance of engine components.

Collaborations

Kakiuchi has also collaborated with notable professionals in his field, including Teruo Takahashi and Kenichi Sato. Their combined expertise underscores the innovative spirit prevalent in their projects.

Conclusion

Arata Kakiuchi stands as a significant figure in the realm of innovations related to iron-based sintered alloys. His six patents reflect a dedication to enhancing the durability and performance of critical components in internal combustion engines. As the industry evolves, Kakiuchi's contributions will undeniably continue to shape future advancements in engineering and materials science.