Tribological and Mechanical Performance of Coatings on Piston to Avoid Failure—A Review

Piston is the most important part in internal combustion engine. During engine operation, piston experiences stress, pressure, temperature change resulting in mechanical and thermal fatigue failure. In addition, the seizure of pistons due to their contact with the piston rings, skirt and cylinder liners is among the major problem in internal combustion engines, posing a serious threat to the efficiency of the automobiles. Hence, the aim of this review paper is to provide an overview of distinct causes of piston failures and their preventive measures. Further, the tribological and mechanical properties (hardness, elastic modulus, coefficient of friction, roughness, wear rate) of different coatings deposited by various researchers on piston/cylinder liner/piston ring are summarized. These results help the researchers in selecting an appropriate coating material composition, coating process, and parameters for a particular piston/cylinder liner/piston ring material to enhance the life of piston system. So, that any unwanted damage of piston system due to stress, pressure, fatigue, wear and friction could be minimized.