Shear-area variation: A mechanism that reduces hydrodynamic friction in macro-textured piston ring liner contacts

Abstract

Using a reciprocating rig to simulate the piston ring-cylinder liner contact, we show that macro-scale surface texture yields friction reductions in the hydrodynamic regime of up to 35%. Based on these experimental observations, we put forward a new macro-texture induced friction reduction mechanism and validate it through theoretical 1D modelling. This “Shear-Area Variation” mechanism involves macro-texture reducing both the sheared contact area (acting to decrease friction) and hydrodynamic load support/lubricant film thickness (acting to increase shear-rate and hence friction). Provided the oil film is thick enough to prevent asperity contact, the area reduction effect dominates the friction response. This has implications for machine efficiency improvements, as friction is reduced around mid-stroke where sliding speed and energy dissipation is greatest. It also complements the majority of surface texture research which involves micro-scale texture that is only effective at low speeds in the mixed and boundary regimes (around top and bottom- dead centre).