Effect of grooved cylinder liner depths on the tribological performances of cylinder liner-piston ring

Purpose Frictions in cylinder liner-piston ring often cause an inevitable loss of energy loss in the diesel engine. This study aims at evaluating the effect of depths in the cylinder liner groove texture on friction, wear and sealing performances. Design/methodology/approach Five depths of groove texture cylinder liners (50, 100, 150, 200, 250 mu m) were fabricated, and experiments were carried out using a special-purpose diesel engine tester. Comparative analyses of cylinder liner contact resistances, piston ring wear losses and surface appearances were conducted with respect to different surface textures and applied loads. Findings Under no-load conditions, the cylinder liner with a 100 deep thread groove can significantly improve sealing and optimize its lubrication performance. On the other hand, the sealing is highly correlated with the depth of groove and the load within the cylinder liner. Under loaded conditions, the thread groove has less effect on the sealing performance. Originality/value The findings can provide feasible basis for the tribological design and production of diesel engines.