Experimental Investigation of Laser Surface Texturing for Reciprocating Automotive Components

An experimental study is presented to evaluate the effectiveness of micro-surface structure, produced by laser texturing, to improve tribological properties of reciprocating automotive components. The test rig and test specimens are described and some test results are presented. Good correlation is found with theoretical prediction of friction reduction on a simple, yet representative, test specimen. Potential benefit of the laser surface texturing under conditions of lubricant starvation is also presented. Finally, friction reduction with actual production piston rings and cylinder liner segments is demonstrated.