Abstract
This paper describes the development of sintered iron-base piston rings and their performance in service. Initial tests in peg-and-disc and compatibility rigs indicated that the materials SP20 and FC3/1 were likely to have suitable characteristics for this application. Rings, preferably made by form-turning, were fitted to petrol and diesel engines and their behaviour observed. Particular attention was given to the effects of various surface treatments on ‘scuffing’. It is shown that scuffing is associated with regions of metal flow which closes surface pores and may produce a feather edge to the rings which may break away and promote wear. It is concluded that rings made from FC3/1 in particular are readily machinable and provide a smear-resistant surface which retains its porosity for lubricant and is unusually free from scuffing and wear in service.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.