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A belted piston refers to a piston design that incorporates a continuous steel band or belt cast into the skirt portion below the piston rings. Here’s a detailed explanation of its function and benefits:
- Design and Construction:
- Skirt with Steel Band: The steel band is integrated into the lower part of the piston skirt, typically below the piston rings. It runs circumferentially around the piston skirt.
- Material and Placement: The steel band is usually made of hardened steel or a similar high-strength material. It is precisely cast or machined into the piston skirt during manufacturing.
- Functionality:
- Control of Skirt Expansion: The primary purpose of the steel band in a belted piston is to control and limit the expansion of the piston skirt during operation.
- Heat Management: By restricting the radial expansion of the piston skirt, the steel band helps maintain tighter clearances between the piston and cylinder walls. This contributes to improved engine efficiency, reduced frictional losses, and enhanced durability.
- Reduced Noise and Vibration: The controlled skirt expansion also helps in reducing piston slap noise and vibration, leading to quieter engine operation.
- Applications:
- Automotive Engines: Belted pistons are commonly used in modern automotive engines, particularly in high-performance and heavy-duty applications where reliability and longevity are crucial.
- Performance Engines: They are favored in engines that operate under high thermal and mechanical stresses, such as turbocharged engines or engines used in racing applications.
- Diesel Engines: In diesel engines, belted pistons help manage the higher compression forces and thermal loads associated with diesel combustion.
Overall, the incorporation of a steel band into the piston skirt design enhances the piston’s structural integrity, thermal management, and overall performance characteristics, making it a preferred choice in demanding engine applications.
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