What is Piston Ring?

Introduction of Piston Ring

Piston rings is metal split ring attached to the outer diameter of pistons in internal combustion or steam engines.

Piston ring

An internal combustion engine is a heat engine in which the combustion takes place in a cylinder, reusing high temperature and compressive power to do useful work.

This function of internal combustion engines is achieved through the interaction of various parts. These parts are bolted together and the combination of all these parts is called the engine. Piston rings are one of the most important auto parts.

The piston is an important part of the internal combustion engine. It forms a moving boundary. When fuel burns in the cylinder, it exerts a compressive force on the piston, which moves down and converts thermal energy into mechanical energy.

The piston is equipped with several metal rings that perform many functions. These rings are called piston rings.

Purpose of Piston Ring

  • Combustion chamber sealing for as little gas as possible entering the crankcase.
  • Improved heat transfer from piston to cylinder wall.
  • Maintains proper oil volume between piston and cylinder wall.

Different Types of Piston Ring

Normally there are 3 types of piston rings are used un internal combustion engine. They are:

  • Compression Ring
  • Wiper Ring
  • Oil Ring

Let’s know more about these 3 types of piston rings.

1. Compression Ring:

The top ring closest to the
piston head. Ensures a good seal between piston and engine cylinder. When the charge was ignited, it exerted a compressive force on the piston. These combustion gases push the piston towards the crankshaft. They travel through grooves made in the compression ring, where they push the compression ring against the cylinder wall to form an airtight seal.

2. Wiper Ring:

As the name suggests, it is inserted in the groove between the compression ring and the oil ring. The wiper ring has two main functions. The first is to help the compression ring achieve a proper seal and the second is to wipe off excess lubrication provided by the oil ring.

3. Oil Ring:

This ring This is the bottom ring of the set. Oil rings supply lubrication through grooves to reduce friction between piston and cylinder. A 4-stroke engine is equipped with an oil ring. The 2-stroke engine does not include an oil ring due to the mist lubrication system.

Summing Up

In this article I have described all the important aspects of the piston ring. I tried to explain in a simple way. I hope you enjoyed this article.

Keep Learning!

Thanks!

Cya!😊

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