Internal Combustion Engine Piston

An internal combustion engine piston is a cylindrical component that moves up and down inside the engine cylinder. It is a crucial part of the engine's combustion process.

The piston is typically made of aluminum alloy and is designed to withstand high temperatures and pressures. It is connected to the engine's connecting rod, which in turn is connected to the crankshaft. As the fuel-air mixture is ignited inside the cylinder, the expanding gases push the piston downward, converting the chemical energy of the fuel into mechanical energy.

The piston has several important features, including:

1. Crown: The top surface of the piston, also known as the head or dome. It is designed to withstand the heat and pressure generated during combustion.

2. Skirt: The lower part of the piston that contacts the cylinder wall. It helps to guide the piston and maintain proper alignment within the cylinder.

3. Rings: The piston has one or more piston rings that are fitted into grooves on the outer circumference. These rings help to seal the combustion chamber, preventing the escape of gases and ensuring efficient combustion.

4. Piston Pin: Also known as the wrist pin or gudgeon pin, it connects the piston to the connecting rod. It allows the piston to pivot and move freely as the engine operates.

The piston plays a crucial role in the internal combustion engine by converting the pressure generated by the combustion process into rotational motion, which is then transferred to the crankshaft. This motion is ultimately used to power the vehicle or machinery that the engine is installed in.