Engine-wear Discussion as Scientists and Technicians Get Together
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AGROUP of about 200 scientists and technicians met at the Shell research centre, Thornton, recently to discuss wear in automotive engines. Representatives from 11 countries were present, including members of universities, technical colleges, government departments and vehicle manufacturers.
The recent work carried out at Thornton in connection with piston-ring wear was dealt with in some detail, this work having shown that improvements in engine design have all but eliminated the type of ring wear associated with acid corrosion. It would appear, in fact, that further increases in engine life can be expected from studies in progress.
Speakers at the meeting included Dr. F. P. Bowden, who reviewed some of the recent work done•under his direction at
Cambridge University on the friction of solids, and Professor Jr. H. Block, of the University of Technology, Delft, Holland. Prof. Block discussed work he has done on measuring the high temperatures developed in the microscopic peaks on metal surfaces when they are rubbed together. These temperatures, known as " flash " temperatures, can be high enough to cause the metal at the point of contact to melt.
Prof. Block's flash-temperature theories have been used at Thornton to gain a better understanding of the problems of valve-gear wear in some of the latest designs of engine. A paper on these studies was read, and this contained fundamental information that it is hoped will contribute to the design of future cams and gears.