EcoTough coating for diesel engine pistons by Federal-Mogul

Global automobile technology major Federal-Mogul has developed a new type of piston coating for light and heavy duty diesel engines to improve their efficiency and durability. 

In a single-cylinder diesel engine, Federal-Mogul has recorded reduction of friction of up to 13 per cent by using the EcoTough coating on the piston. The application also recorded reduction in noise and CO2 emissions as well as an improvement in refinement levels. 

The EcoTough coating consists of solid lubricants such as graphite and carbon fibre reinforced polymer base to provide lower friction due to higher scruff resistance and improved wear resistance. 

Reducing the contact patch between the piston skirt and cylinder wall reduces friction. But it can cause lateral movement of the piston which increases noise and vibrations. Federal-Mogul’s robust and precise coating application delivers specified thickness to provide increased skirt clearance while allowing no lateral movement of the piston. 

 "Our technology is a proven solution that will help OEMs achieve greater fuel economy and durability for their vehicles. The reduction of parasitic friction losses between the piston and the cylinder bore is a priority for all vehicle manufacturers. EcoTough provides a simple, cost effective way of achieving this," said Dr Frank T H  Doernenburg, Federal-Mogul's director of technology, pistons and pins.

Federal-Mogul’s EcoTough coated pistons for diesel engines are compatible with existing and advanced cylinder bore finishes and can be applied to existing pistons and pistons of engines currently under production as a running change in production process.