Advanced Wear Measurement Technique for Compression Ring Bottom Flank Wear

Diesel engine technology advancements in performance and requirements for meeting emission regulations have developed new challenges for piston system durability. Increased combustion pressure and exhaust gas recirculation have severely increased the demand of the top piston ring to top piston groove surface interactions. This more demanding environment has resulted in new needs for improved durability and compatibility of the bottom flank of the top piston ring and the bottom side to the top piston groove. Developments in materials and treatments of these surfaces require accurate analysis and assessment of the worn regions. With this demand, new measurement techniques have been deployed to accurately map the bottom flank of the top piston ring and the bottom side of the top piston groove. The new methods allow for volumetric wear measurements and regional analysis for wear step magnitudes to assist in better material wear characterization as well as piston ring design influence.