Tribological Effect and Honing Studies of PEO Coated Engine Cylinder Bores

The automotive industry is striving towards greater fuel efficiency, and one of the ways in which it is trying to achieve this is through light weighting. The use of aluminum alloys in engine blocks to reduce weight is part of the solution for better fuel efficiency. However, the automotive sector is always striving for innovation and greater engine performance. Consequently, another possible solution for fuel-efficiency was proposed. Through the use of surface coatings for the purposes of reducing friction, applying a surface coating on the engine cylinder bores, reduces the friction coefficient between the cylinder walls and piston ring. This reduction in friction has the potential to increase engine output, due to the smaller energy losses, and therefore increase fuel-efficiency. The surface coating used in this case is referred to as plasma electrolytic oxidation coating. The Ford Motor Company has the potential to benefit greatly from this project, as it would provide them with the ability to produce more fuel-efficient and powerful engines for their vehicles, providing them with an edge over their competitors.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dr. Xueyuan Nie

Student:

Vlad Leshchinsky

Partner:

Ford Motor Company

Discipline:

Engineering - mechanical

Sector:

Automotive and transportation

University:

University of Windsor