Possibility of Marine Low-Speed Engine Piston Ring Wear Prediction during Real Operational Conditions

Abstract

A long-stroke, low-speed marine engine is used as the prime mover of a ship. During the operation of such engines, the excessive wear of the cylinder liners and piston rings frequently occurs. The breakdown of cylinder liners or piston rings is very dangerous for the safety of a vessel, the environment, and the people on board. The reliability of engine components is an extremely important topic, as it influences the efficient operation of the vessel. Therefore, to prevent such undesired events, it is essential that the condition of the cylinder liners and piston rings is frequently assessed. This paper presents research that finds prediction models for the rate of piston ring wear. The compiled prediction models are verified using verification tests. The models can be implemented to evaluate the tendency of piston rings to wear, and can be used to evaluate the quality of cylinder liner lubrication. Our findings will help to obtain the required optimal piston ring wear rates, maintain the good operational condition of the engine, reduce the costs of engine maintenance, and reduce the total consumption of lubricating oil and the emission of noxious substances into the atmosphere. All the mentioned benefits are related to a reduction in the ship’s operational costs and are directly related to energy efficiency.