Pistons

Abstract

Automobile engines have with time witnessed a favorable change with respect to fuel economy, passenger comfort, environment, and so on. The change continues with every manufacturer and researcher striving toward excellence. Pistons and their ring assembly are one of the important elements in whole engine assembly, which have metamorphosed to suit the current requirement. Improvements in design, geometry, and material have not only reduced the inertia forces but also increased the time interval between overhauls. The modification of piston crowns to introduce swirl by squish effect and material coating techniques have enhanced the features of a piston. In fact, engines today last their useful life without any significant maintenance other than renewal of oil and filters. Piston rings too have reduced in numbers and are designed to meet its functional requirement. The contents are essentially an overview and ode to the excellent work done by research teams and engine manufacturers worldwide, in optimizing the engine efficiency.