Modelling and numerical simulation of magnetostrictive materials for reduction of friction

Abstract

This study aims to enhance the multifunctional properties in top piston rings by adding magnetostrictive materials to reduce friction between them and the cylinder lining. The magnetostrictive effect will create mechanical deformations in piston rings, with consequent friction reduction. The present study consisted of a finite element analysis (FEA), using COMSOL Multiphysics® software, where both the amplitude of deformation and the reduction of the contact forces were analysed. These variables are useful to predict the ability to introduce mechanical vibrations in piston rings that can lead to the reduction of friction. The results showed a reduction of the contact force below 4%, and deformation amplitudes in the sliding plane of 6.50 μm and 3.20 μm, approximately, in the axial and circumferential directions, respectively. Those results are promising, enhancing the potential of smart materials and magnetostrictive effects to create mechanical vibrations and reduce friction in piston ring structures.