Hybrid surface modification for improved tribological performance of IC engine components - a review

The worldwide increase in demand for automotive sectors requires improved components life cycle, fuel economy and emission control. However, the occurrence of high temperature and variable loading on contact surfaces of internal combustion (IC) engine causes excessive friction results into reduced component life cycle, degrades emission level and fuel economy too. A small improvement in tribological performance and oil sealing through surface modification can able to enhance the functional performance of IC engine components significantly. Hence, in this work, a detailed discussion on the comparison of different hybrid surface modification techniques such as coatings, textures, and nanoparticles can work synergistically to improve the tribological performance of IC engine components. The process capabilities, limitations, and their effect on tribological performances of IC engine components are also presented. An analysis of surface texture parameters such as geometry, dimension, motion parameters, surface roughness, and oil transport mechanism is done to know the effects on the performance of the IC Engine. Further, the hybridization of different processes with nanoparticles (metallic, metallic oxides, carbon nanoparticles) is briefly presented. Finally, the effect of modified surface chemistry and characterization such as asperity, topography, microhardness, residual stress, and adhesive strength characteristics is also related to the tribological performances of IC engine components.