Abstract
Intensive developments of the plasma spray technology for the coating of cylinder bores were done during the last ten years. Now this technology is used in Europe and Japan on an industrial basis.
Gasoline and diesel engines now are manufactured by using this process. The benefits of the technology is located by a significantly reduction of the coefficient of friction between the piston ring and the cylinder wall. The reduction of the size and the weight of the engines additionally are advantages of the process.
It is from great importance to consider all the chain of technology. Cast processes, machining before coating, coating deposition and material, the machining and also the non destructive testing are key factors for a production in series.
The cost of the coating deposition plays an importance roll for the using in mass production. The low cost of the plasma spray technology allows a production in major series.
This process probably will have a significantly influence on the new generation of economical engine with low fuel consumption.