Tribological Principles of Constructing the Reciprocating Machines

Reducing vehicle weight contributes to reducing fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. In practice, this is achieved by application of lightweight materials and through optimization of tribo-systems on the vehicle. The benefit of using aluminium is evident due to the reduced mass of the parts, but in parallel there is a problem due to the low strength of this metal. This is especially evident during overheating when can form cracks. The wear resistance and tribo-properties of aluminium are the problem, too. To achieve the strength and tribo-properties of aluminium alloys similar to grey cast iron, we applied eco-tribological knowledge during construction of reciprocating machines. The result of researches is patented prototype of aluminium piston and cylinder whose contact surfaces are coated or modified with inserts based on the tribo-materials.