Piston Ring

A piston ring is a metal split ring that is attached to the outer diameter of a piston in an internal combustion engine or steam engine. It is an essential part of a piston that helps to diffuse heat from the heated piston into the cooled cylinder.

What are the types of piston rings?

There are three main piston ring types: the top piston ring compressor, the intermediate compression ring, and the oil control ring. A top piston ring compressor tool is the closest to combustion gasses and is exposed to a great amount of chemical corrosion and a very high operating temperature. Its main function is to seal a significant measure of the combustion gasses to provide maximum power output from the engine. Once weakened, top compression piston ring tools result in a reduction of the engine's efficiency. To avoid this, it comes with a backup compression ring which is the wiper or the intermediate compression piston ring. Intermediate compression rings are placed under the top compression rings and are meant to stop gas leakage furthering down from the top ring compressors. They clean off excess oil from the liner's surface and aid in heat transfer. An intermediate compression piston ring tool features a taper-angle face that provides the wiping action. Oil control rings regulate the quantity of greasing oil passing the wall up or down the cylinder walls. They also help in spreading the oil evenly around the liner's circumference.

Which material is used for piston rings?

The piston rings of cars are mostly made of cast iron, ductile iron, and steel. Cast iron provides light-duty service and it works more efficiently if not exposed to unusual dirt or heat conditions. Ductile iron is considered one of the best materials used for making piston rings due to its being highly heat-resistant, flexible, and strong. Ductile iron rings are resistant to breaking and can withstand several bending. Steel rings are known for longevity, strength, and resistance to corrosion.