Federal-Mogul Powertrain has developed a new range of pistons for heavy-duty diesel engines, to help reduce fuel consumption and meet the emission requirements of Euro 6 and beyond.
Advanced piston architectures, manufacturing processes, materials, and treatments that increase durability and reduce friction have been applied to both steel and aluminium pistons.
While aluminium is lighter and conducts heat better, steel is stronger and better suited for high peak cylinder pressures.
Aluminium remains the first choice for sizes of 120mm or below; steel is the established material for truck applications with bore sizes of 130mm or more.
However, Federal-Modul says there is an increasing trend for steel pistons in the mid-size bore sector, especially for PCPs in excess of 210-220bar.
Federal-Mogul's aluminium and steel pistons feature its EcoTough Diesel coating, which reduces friction. In addition, for steel products, the company has developed a coating containing nanodiamonds in a chrome layer, to reflect heat and reduce carbon build-up and bowl rim erosion.
Aluminium pistons now have improved cooling through advanced architecture that locates the oil-cooled gallery closer to the hot region than conventional pistons.
The latest products will be on show at the IAA Commercial Vehicles Show in Hannover (25 September to 2 October).
