Elastohydrodynamic Effects in Piston Ring Lubrication in Modern Gasoline and Diesel Engines

Abstract

A study has been carried out to investigate the importance of elastohydrodynamic effects in the lubrication of piston rings of modern gasoline and diesel engines. It has been found that, in terms of frictional power losses, elastohydrodynamic effects are not significant in gasoline engines, but can be important in diesel engines. In terms of top ring/liner wear, however, elastohydrodynamic lubrication effects may be important for both types of engines.