Importance

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Abstract

A bench testing system creates a predetermined wear and friction environment wherein wear elements, illustratively a piston ring and a cylinder liner, can be tested, along with lubricant properties, under simulated conditions of an internal combustion engine. The effects of speed and normal load can be examined under multiple lubrication regimes, and variations in the coefficient of friction can be observed as a function of crank angle degree. Profilocorder techniques are used to examine photomicroscopic surface characteristics. The cylinder wall wear element is supported in a first support arrangement that is driven reciprocatingly along a substantially axial path. A dynamic counter-reciprocating arrangement is coupled thereto for controlling second harmonic inertial forces. A second support arrangement that supports the piston ring wear element is coupled to a linear drive that urges same in a direction transverse to the substantially axial path of reciprocation of the cylinder wall wear element. A force gauge coupled to the linear drive produces data corresponding to the force being applied thereby. A further force gauge measures the friction force. Rotational data is obtained from a rotational encoder, and a lubricant supply arrangement provides lubrication in accordance with a plurality of lubrication regimes.

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First Claim