AUTOMOTIVE AND

LARGE BORE ENGINE APPLICATIONS A

Issue date: 03.01

Piston Rings and Piston Ring Elements

Cast Iron Materials

Desig- Reference Grade Hardness

nation
KS MED AE DIN
unalloyed, non
GOE 12 K1 47 A 210 6621-3 heat-treated grey 94-106 HRB
cast iron

unalloyed, non
GOE 13 K 25 47 T 6621-3 heat-treated grey 97-108 HRB
cast iron

alloyed, heat-treated
GOE 32 K 11 47 Z 6621-3 grey cast iron 109-116 HRB
with carbides

malleable
GOE 44 222 6621-3 102-111 HRB
cast iron

spheroidal graphite
GOE 52 K9 47 J 227 6621-3 104-112 HRB
cast iron

spheroidal graphite
GOE 56 K 22 130 A 232 6621-3 40-46 HRC
cast iron
 Material Specification
Piston Rings
GOE 12 A
Reference: K1, MED 47 A, MC 13, AE 210 Issue date: 06.00

Material:
Non heat-treated grey cast iron,
according to ISO 6621-3, subclass 12

Chemical composition (%):

C: 3.4 - 3.9 Si: 2.2 - 3.2 Mn: 0.5 - 1.0
P: 0.3 - 0.6 S: max 0.13 Cr: 0.1 - 0.4
V: max 0.15 Cu: 0.1 - 0.7

unetched 100 : 1
Other elements may be present as impurities.

Microstructure:
Graphite: predominantly flaky and
uniformly distributed
Matrix: pearlite, ferrite not exceeding 5 %
Phosphide eutectic: evenly distributed

Mechanical properties:
Hardness: 94 - 106 HRB
200 - 290 HB
etched with HNO 3 500 : 1 Bending strength: min 350 MPa
Modulus of elasticity: 100000 MPa typical
85000 - 115000 MPa

strongly etched 20 : 1

Note: The analysis ranges are designed to allow for different cross sections. Variations are admissible on condition
that the structure and mechanical properties are not adversely affected. The hardness data are averages of three
measurements on a single ring: 1st measurement at the gap, 2nd measurement 90° from the gap,
3rd measurement diametrically opposite the gap.
Hardness testing to DIN EN 10109-1 and DIN EN 10003-1. However, the minimum distance between the middle of the
impression and the edge of the specimen must be 1.5 mm. For specimens with narrower test surfaces or with cross
sections having an insufficiently high bearing capacity for test loads, the hardness can be measured to DIN 50133.
In this case the limit values must be appropriately adjusted by means of comparative measurements.
The modulus of elasticity is determined at a bending stress of 200 MPa.
 Material Specification
Piston Rings
GOE 13 A
Reference: K25, MED 47T Issue date: 10.97

Material:
Unalloyed non heat-treated
flake graphite cast iron,
according to ISO 6621-3, subclass 13*

Chemical composition (%):

C: 2.8 - 3.8 Si: 2.0 - 3.0 Mn: 0.5 - 0.9
P: 0.3 - 0.7 S: max 0.15 Cr: 0.15 - 0.6
V: max 0.2 Cu: 0.2 - 0.8
unetched 100 : 1

Other elements may be present as impurities.

Microstructure:
Graphite: predominantly flaky and
uniformly distributed
Matrix: pearlite, ferrite not exceeding 5 %
Phosphide eutectic: predominantly non-continuous
network

Mechanical properties:
etched with HNO 3 500 : 1 Hardness: 97 - 108 HRB
200 - 320 HB
Bending strength: min 420 MPa
Modulus of elasticity: 95000 - 125000 MPa

strongly etched 20 : 1

* ISO 6621-3 / Draft Sept. 1997

Note: The composition ranges are designed to allow for different cross sections. Variations are admissible on
condition that the structure and mechanical properties are not affected.
The hardness figures are averages from three measurements on a single ring: 1st measurement at the gap;
2nd measurement 90° to the gap; 3rd measurement diametrically opposite the gap.
Hardness testing to DIN EN 10109-1 and DIN EN 10003-1. The minimum permissible distance between the middle of
the impression and the edge of the specimen is 1.5 mm. For specimens with narrower test surfaces or with cross
sections having an insufficiently high bearing capacity for the test loads (e.g. slotted oil rings), the hardness can be
measured in HV5 to DIN 50 133, the applicable range being 230 - 340 HV5.
The modulus of elasticity is determined at a bending stress of 200 MPa.
 Material Specification
Piston Rings
GOE 32 A
Reference: K11 (F14), MED 47Z Issue date: 10.97

Material:
Carbidic cast iron,
according to ISO 6621-3, subclass 32*

Chemical composition (%):

C: 2.5 - 3.3 Si: 3.6 - 4.6 Mn: 0.8 - 1.2
P: max 0.35 S: max 0.15 Cr: 0.2 - 0.6
V: 0.3 - 0.7 Mo: 0.5 - 1.0 Ni: 0.5 - 1.0
Cu: 0.5 - 1.0 Ti: max 0.3 W: 0.8 - 1.2
unetched 100 : 1
Nb: 0.1 - 0.4

Other elements may be present as impurities.

Microstructure:
Graphite: fine-flaked, punctiform
Matrix: tempered martensite with
uniformly distributed
Phosphide eutectic: punctiform tending to
non-continuous network

etched with HNO 3 500 : 1 Mechanical properties:

Hardness: 109 - 116 HRB
35 - 49 HRC
Bending strength: min 650 MPa
Bending strength: 130000 - 160000 MPa

* ISO 6621-3 /Draft Sept. 1997

Note: The composition ranges are designed to allow for different cross sections. Variations are admissible on
condition that the structure and mechanical properties are not affected.
The hardness figures are averages from three measurements on a single ring: 1st measurement at the gap;
2nd measurement 90° to the gap; 3rd measurement diametrically opposite the gap.
Hardness testing to DIN EN 10109-1 and DIN EN 10003-1. The minimum permissible distance between the middle of
the impression and the edge of the specimen is 1.5 mm. For specimens with narrower test surfaces or with cross
sections having an insufficiently high bearing capacity for the test loads, the hardness can be measured in HV5 to
DIN 50133, whereby the limit values are to be ascertained based on comparative measurements.
The modulus of elasticity is determined at a bending stress of 250 MPa.
 Material Specification
Piston Rings
GOE 44 A
Reference: AE 222 Issue date: 10.99

Material:
Malleable cast iron,
according to ISO 6621-3, subclass 44 *

Chemical composition (%):

C: 2.7 - 3.3 Si: 1.5 - 2.5 Mn: 0.4 - 0.9
P: max 0.5 S: max 0.1 Cr: 0.3 - 0.85
V: 0.1 - 0.4

unetched 100 : 1
Other elements may be present as impurities.

Microstructure:
Graphite: uniformly distributed temper graphite aggregates
Matrix: pearlite containing 2-10 % (by area) of small well
distributed complex alloy carbides.
Some spheroidisation may be present.

Mechanical properties:
Hardness: 102 - 111 HRB
27 - 36 HRC
etched with HNO 3 500 : 1 Bending strength**: min 800 MPa
Modulus of elasticity: min 150000 MPa

* ISO 6621-3 / Draft Aug. 1998

** An exact determination of the bending strength as per material specification B 14 is not possible owing to the
high ductility of the material.
Note: The composition ranges are designed to allow for different cross sections. Variations are admissible on
condition that the structure and mechanical properties are not affected.
The hardness figures are averages from three measurements on a single ring: 1st measurement at the gap;
2nd measurement 90° from the gap; 3rd measurement diametrically opposite the gap.
Hardness testing to DIN EN ISO 6508-1. The minimum permissible distance between the middle of the impression and
the edge of the specimen is 1.5 mm. For specimens with narrower test surfaces or with cross sections having an
insufficiently high bearing capacity for the test loads, the hardness can be measured in HV5 to DIN 50 133, whereby
the limit values are to be ascertained based on comparative measurements.
 Material Specification
Piston Rings
GOE 52 A
Reference: K9 (KV1), MED 47J, AE 227 Issue date: 10.97

Material:
Spheroidal graphite cast iron,
according to ISO 6621-3, subclass 52*

Chemical composition (%):

C: 3.5 - 4.0 Si: 2.4 - 3.2 Mn: max 0.5
P: max 0.3 S: max 0.05 Cr: max 0.2
Cu: max 1.0 Mg: max 0.1

unetched 100 : 1
Other elements may be present as impurities.

Microstructure:
Graphite: roughly spheroidal
Matrix: tempered martensite,
isolated carbide particles are acceptable

Mechanical properties:
Hardness: 104 - 112 HRB
25 - 42 HRC
Bending strength**: min 1300 MPa
etched with HNO 3 500 : 1 Modulus of elasticity: min 150000 MPa

Coefficient of thermal expansion 10-6/K:

20 - 100°C: 10.0

Density:
7.3 g/cm3

* ISO 6621-3 / Draft Sept. 1997

** An exact determination of the bending strength as per material specification B 14 is not possible owing to the
high ductility of the material.
Note: The composition ranges are designed to allow for different cross sections. Variations are admissible on
condition that the structure and mechanical properties are not affected.
The hardness figures are averages from three measurements on a single ring: 1st measurement at the gap;
2nd measurement 90° to the gap; 3rd measurement diametrically opposite the gap.
Hardness testing to DIN EN 10109-1 and DIN EN 10003-1. The minimum permissible distance between the middle of
the impression and the edge of the specimen is 1.5 mm. For specimens with narrower test surfaces or with cross
sections having an insufficiently high bearing capacity for the test loads, the hardness can be measured in HV5 to
DIN 50 133, whereby the limit values are to be ascertained based on comparative measurements.
 Material Specification
Piston Rings
GOE 56 A
Reference: K 22 (KV4), MED 130 A, AE 232 Issue date: 10.97

Material:
Spheroidal graphite cast iron,
according to ISO 6621-3, subclass 56*

Chemical composition (%):

C: 3.5 - 4.0 Si: 2.4 - 3.2 Mn: max 0.5
P: max 0.3 S: max 0.05 Cr: max 0.2
Cu: max 1.0 Mg: max 0.1

unetched 100 : 1
Other elements may be present as impurities.

Microstructure:
Graphite: roughly spheroidal
Matrix: tempered martensite, isolated
carbide particles are acceptable

Mechanical properties:
Hardness: 40 - 46 HRC
390 - 470 HB
Bending strength**: min 1300 MPa
etched with HNO 3 500 : 1 Modulus of elasticity: min 150000 MPa

Coefficient of thermal expansion 10-6/K:

20 - 100°C: 10.0

Density:
7.3 g/cm3

* ISO 6621-3 / Draft Sept. 1997

** An exact determination of the bending strength as per material specification B 14 is not possible owing to the
high ductility of the material.
Note: The composition ranges are designed to allow for different cross sections. Variations are admissible on
condition that the structure and mechanical properties are not affected.
The hardness figures are averages from three measurements on a single ring: 1st measurement at the gap;
2nd measurement 90° to the gap; 3rd measurement diametrically opposite the gap.
Hardness testing to DIN EN 10109-1 and DIN EN 10008-1. The minimum permissible distance between the middle of
the impression and the edge of the specimen is 1.5 mm. For specimens with narrower test surfaces or with cross
sections having an insufficiently high bearing capacity for the test loads, the hardness can be measured in HV5 to
DIN 50133, whereby the limit values are to be ascertained based on comparative measurements.
 Automotive Applications
A
Issue date: 04.2008

Coatings

Designation Reference Coating Process Coating Materials

GOE 200 O 2 (MoVL) Flame spraying Molybdenum

GOE 201 O 4 (MP 43) Plasma spraying Molybdenum based powder

Powder composed of molybdenum

GOE 202 O 8 (MKP 81 A) Plasma spraying
and hard material

Powder composed of molybdenum

GOE 203 O 14 (MKP 110) Plasma spraying
and hard material

Powder composed of molybdenum

GOE 204 O 12 (MKP 107 E) Plasma spraying
and hard material

GOE 205 O 6 (MP 96 A) Plasma spraying Molybdenum based powder

high velocity oxy-fuel Metal matrix and carbides based

GOE 210 MKJet 502
spraying (HVOF) on chromium and tungsten

GOE 230 O 30 (CKS 36) Electrochemical deposition Chromium and aluminium oxide

GOE 231 CKS 38 Electrochemical deposition Chromium and aluminium oxide

GOE 232 GDC 50 Electrochemical deposition Chromium and diamond

GOE 233 GDC 52 Electrochemical deposition Chromium and diamond

GOE 234 CKS 37 Electrochemical deposition Chrom und Aluminiumoxid

GOE 240 PVD-Coating Chromiumnitrid

GOE 242 PVD-Coating Chromiumnitrid

GOE 243 PVD-Coating Chromiumnitrid

GOE 245 PVD-Coating DLC-Coating

Nitriding and nitro-

GOE 250 O 25, RES-M/525 Nitride segregations
carburizing of alloyed steels
 Material Specification
Coatings
GOE 200 A
Reference: O 2 (MoVL) Issue date: 01.09.2008

Material:
molybdenum

Process:
flame spraying

Technological properties:
high suff resistance

unetched 100 : 1
Porosity:
max 20 %
Only pores larger than 5 µm are considered.

Pore size:
98 % of all pores must be no larger than 45 µm.
Sporadic pores up to 90 µm are allowable.
The pore size in radial direction must not exceed half the
thickness of the coating.

Hardness of coating:
unetched 200 : 1 average 480 – 1380 HV 0.1

Strength:
min 30 N/mm²
obtained by dividing max load from tensile test by
the specimen cross section (DIN EN 582)

etched according
to Murakami 500 : 1

Note: Details of test/measuring procedures and specimen preparation are contained in Material Specification
GOE 520.
 Material Specification
Coatings
GOE 201 A
Reference: O 4 (MP43) Issue date: 01.00

Material:
molybdenum based powder
Process:
plasma spraying
Technological properties:
high scuff resistance and a good relationship between
coating wear and cylinder wear
Chemical composition of the coating (% by weight):
unetched 100 : 1
Mo: 68 - 82 Ni: 12 - 22
Cr: 2.5 - 6.0 Si: 0.7 - 1.4
B: 0.5 - 1.0
Fe, Co, C, O and N together max 5 %.
Porosity:
max 10 %
Only pores larger than 5 μm are considered.
Pore size:
98 % of all pores must be no larger than 35 μm.
Sporadic pores up to 70 μm are allowable.
unetched 200 : 1 The pore size in radial direction must not exceed half the
thickness of the coating.
Particle hardness*:
dark phase: average 400 - 800 HV 0.05
white phase: average 700 - 1200 HV 0.05
Hardness of coating**:
average 350 - 500 HV 1
370 - 520 HV 0.5
Strength:
min 25 N/mm2
etched according to Murakami obtained by dividing max load from tensile test
500 : 1 by the specimen cross section (DIN EN 582)

* measured on the cross section etched according to Murakami

** for coating thicknesses ≤ 100 μm determined in HV 0.5
Note: Details of test/measuring procedures and specimen preparation are contained in Material Specification
GOE 520.
 Material Specifikation
Coatings
GOE 202 A
Reference: O 8 (MKP81A) Issue date: 03.2008

Material:
Powder composed of molybdenum and hard material.
Process:
Plasma spraying
Technological properties:
High wear resistance, low cylinder wear and enhanced
thermal loading capacity .
Chemical composition of the coating [% by weight]:
Mo: 67 - 77
unetched 100 : 1
Ni: 16 - 24
Cr: 3.7 - 7.0
C: 0.5 - 2.0
Fe, Co, O, N: together max 5%
Porosity:
max 10 %
Only pores larger than 5µm are considered.
Pore size:
98% of all pores must not be larger than max 35µm.
Sporadic pores up to 70 µm are permitted.
The pore size in radial direction must not exceed half
unetched 500 : 1 the thickness of the coating.
Particle hardness: *
dark Phase average 400 - 800 HV0.05
yellow Phase average 200 - 500 HV0.05
white Phase average 900 - 1400 HV0.05
Coating hardnesss: **
average 260 - 480 HV1
average 260 - 500 HV0.5
average 370 - 800 HV0.1
Strength:
min 35 N/mm²
obtained by deviding max load from tensile test by the
Etched according
to Murakami 500 : 1 specimen cross section (DIN EN 582)

* Measured on the cross section etched according to Murakami

** Coating hardness HV1 used for coating thickness > 200µm (specified size in drawing), for coating thickness
< 200µm HV0.1
Note: details of tests/measuring procedures and specimen preparation are defined in Material Specification
GOE 520.
 Material Specification
Coatings
GOE 203 A
Reference: O 14 (MKP110) Issue date: 01.00

Material:
powder composed of molybdenum and hard material
Process:
plasma spraying
Technological properties:
high wear resistance, low cylinder wear and enhanced
thermal loading capacity
Chemical composition of the coating (% by weight):
unetched 100 : 1
Mo: 67 - 77 Ni: 15 - 23
Cr: 2.0 - 6.0 C: 0.5 - 2.0
Fe, Co, Si, B, O and N together max 5%.
Porosity:
max 10 %
Only pores larger than 5 μm are considered.
Pore size:
98 % of all pores must be no larger than 45 μm.
Sporadic pores up to 90 μm are allowable.
The pore size in radial direction must not exceed half
unetched 200 : 1 the thickness of the coating.
Particle hardness*:
dark phase: average 400 - 800 HV 0.05
brownish phase: average 900 - 1400 HV 0.05
white phase: average 700 - 1200 HV 0.05
Hardness of coating**:
average 420 - 570 HV 1
440 - 590 HV 0.5
Strength:
min 35 N/mm2
etched according to Murakami obtained by dividing max load from tensile test by the
500 : 1 specimen cross section (DIN EN 582)

* measured on the cross section etched according to Murakami

** for coating thicknesses ≤ 100 μm determined in HV 0.5
Note: Details of test/measuring procedures and specimen preparation are contained in Material Specification
GOE 520.
 Material Specification
Coatings
GOE 204 A
Reference: O 12 (MKP107E) Issue date: 01.00

Material:
powder composed of molybdenum and hard material
Process:
plasma spraying
Technological properties:
very high wear resistance
Chemical composition of the coating (% by weight):
Mo: 35 - 45 Ni: 34 - 42
unetched 100 : 1
Cr: 17 - 23 C: 0.5 - 2.0
Fe, Co, Mn, O and N together max 5%.
Porosity:
max 10 %
Only pores larger than 5 μm are considered.
Pore size:
98 % of all pores must be no larger than 35 μm.
Sporadic pores up to 70 μm are allowable.
The pore size in radial direction must not exceed half
the thickness of the coating.
unetched 200 : 1
Particle hardness*:
dark phase: average 400 - 800 HV 0.05
yellow phase: average 200 - 500 HV 0.05
white phase: average 900 - 1500 HV 0.05
Hardness of coating**:
average 250 - 400 HV 1
270 - 420 HV 0.5
Strength:
min 35 N/mm2
obtained by dividing max load from tensile test
etched according to Murakami by the specimen cross section (DIN EN 582)
500 : 1

* measured on the cross section etched according to Murakami

** for coating thicknesses ≤ 100 μm determined in HV 0.5
Note: Details of test/measuring procedures and specimen preparation are contained in Material Specification
GOE 520.
 Material Specification
Coatings
GOE 205 A
Reference: O 6 (MP 96 A) Issue date: 05.02

Material:
molybdenum based powder
Process:
plasma spraying
Technological properties:
very high wear resistance and high break-out
resistance for fast running engines
Chemical composition of the coating (% by weight):
unetched 100 : 1
Mo: 53 - 67 Ni: 20 - 28
Cr: 13 - 19
Fe, Co, O and N together max 5 %
Porosity:
max 10 %
Only pores larger than 5 μm are considered.
Pore size:
98 % of all pores must be no larger than 35 μm.
Sporadic pores up to 70 μm are allowable.
The pore size in radial direction must not exceed half
unetched 200 : 1 the thickness of the coating.
Particle hardness*:
dark phase: average 400 - 800 HV 0:05
yellow phase: average 200 - 500 HV 0.05
Hardness of coating**:
average 300 - 450 HV 1
320 - 470 HV 0.5
Strength:
min 30 N/mm2
obtained by dividing max load from tensile test by the
etched according to Murakami specimen cross section (DIN EN 582)
500 : 1

* measured on the cross section etched according to Murakami

** for coating thicknesses ≤ 100 μm determined in HV 0.5
Note: Details of test/measuring procedures and specimen preparation are contained in Material Specification
GOE 520.
 Material Specification
Coatings
GOE 210 A
Reference: MKJet 502 Issue date: 05.2006

Coating Material:
Powder material composed of a metal matrix and
carbides based on chromium and tungsten.

Coating Process:
High Velocity Oxy-Fuel Spraying (HVOF)

Technological Properties:
Very high wear resistance
Low cylinder wear
unetched 200 : 1
High thermal loading capacity

Coating Structure:
2-phase structure of CrC- and WC-phase

Chemical Composition (w.-%):

W: 42.8 – 52.8 Cr: 32.2 – 39.4
C: 5.5 – 7.5 Ni: 11.2 – 13.7
Mo: 1.0 – 2.0
rest: max. 5 %

Coating Porosity:
max. 7 %
etched (Murakami) 200 : 1
Only pores larger than 5 µm are considered.

Pore Size:
98 % of all pore diameters must be no larger than 15 µm.
Sporadic pore diameters up to 20 µm are allowable.

Coating Hardness*:
average 700 - 1150 HV1
average 650 - 1350 HV0.5
average 650 - 1550 HV0.1

Bonding Strength**:
min. 30 N/mm²
etched (Murakami) 500 : 1

Note:
* For coating thickness ≤ 100µm determination of HV0.5, ≤ 50 µm determination of HV0.1
** Adhesion test according to DIN EN 582
Information about test and evaluation procedure as well sample preparation are defined in GOE 520.
 Material Specification
Coatings
GOE 230 A
Reference: O 30 (CKS 36) Issue date: 10.2002

Material:
chromium and aluminium oxide

Process:
electrochemical deposition

Technological properties::
high wear resistance
lower cylinder wear
Running surface 200 : 1
high thermal loading capacity

Coating structure:
chromium coating with aluminium oxide (Al2O3)

Microcrack density:
40 – 100 cracks/mm

Percentage of Al2O3 - particles in the coating:

2 – 6 % by volume

Running surface 1000 : 1 Size of Al2O3 - particles:

0.5 – 5 µm

Hardness of coating:
900 – 1200 HV 0.1

Note: Guidelines for assessment of the coating are contained in Material Specification GOE 530.
 Material Specification
Coatings
GOE 231 A
Reference: CKS 38 Issue date: 01.00

Material:
chromium and aluminium oxide

Process:
electrochemical deposition

Technological propertiesn:
high wear resistance
low cylinder wear
Transverse section 100 : 1

Coating structure:
graduated coating:
1. chromium coating without implanted hard particles
2. chromium coating with aluminium oxide
chromium coating with aluminium oxide
≥ 5/8 of the total coating

Microcrack density:
80 - 120 cracks/mm (chromium coating without implanted
hard particles)
Running surface** 200 : 1 40 - 100 cracks/mm (chromium coating with aluminium oxide)

Percentage of Al2O3 particles in the coating

with implanted hard particles:
2 - 6% by volume

Size of Al2O3 particles:

0.5 - 5 µm

Hardness of Al2O3 particles:

2200 - 3000 HV 0.025*

Running surface** 1000 : 1

Hardness of coating:
900 - 1200 HV 0.1

* hardness values from literature sources

** area of coating with implanted hard particles
Note: Guidelines for assessment of the coating are contained in Material Specification GOE 530.
 Material Specification
Coatings
GOE 232 A
Reference: GDC 50 Issue date: 11.01

Material:
chromium and diamond

Process:
electrochemical deposition

Technological properties:
extremely high wear resistance
low cylinder wear
Running surface 200 : 1
high thermal loading capacity

Coating structure:
chromium coating with diamond (C)

Microcrack density:
40 - 100 cracks/mm

Percentage of diamond particles in the coating:

0.5 - 2.0 % by volume

Running surface 1000 : 1 Size of diamond particles:

0.1 - 2.0 μm

Hardness of coating:
900 - 1200 HV 0.1

Note: Guidelines for assessment of the coating are contained in Material Specification GOE 530.
 Material Specification
Coatings
GOE 233 A
Reference: GDC 52 Issue date: 11.01

Material:
chromium and diamond

Process:
electrochemical deposition

Technological properties:
high wear resistance
low cylinder wear
Transverse section 200 : 1

Coating structure:
graduated coating:
1. chromium coating without implanted hard particles
2. chromium coating with implanted diamond
chromium coating with diamond ≥ 5/8 of the total coating

Microcrack density:
80 - 120 cracks/mm (chromium coating without implanted
hard particles)
40 - 100 cracks/mm (chromium coating with diamond)
Running surface* 200 : 1
Percentage of diamond particles in the coating with
implanted diamond:
0.5 - 2.0 % by volume

Size of diamond particles:

0.1 - 2.0 µm

Hardness of coating:
900 - 1200 HV 0.1

Running surface* 1000 : 1

* area of coating with implanted hard particles

 Material Specification
Coatings
GOE 234 A
Reference: CKS 37 Issue date: 05.02

Coating materials:
chrome and aluminium oxid

Coating process:
electrochemical deposition

Technological properties:
high wear resistance
low cylinder wear
Running surface 200 : 1
high thermal loading capacity
low liability to crack

Coating structure:
chromium coating with aluminium oxide (Al2O3)

Microcrack density:
50 - 100 cracks/mm

Percentage of Al2O3 particles in the coating:

5 - 12 % by volume
Running surface* 200 : 1
Size of Al2O3 particles:
0.5 - 5 µm

Hardness of Al2O3 particles:

2200 - 3000 HV 0.025*

Coating hardness:
800 - 1200 HV 0.1

* hardness values from literature sources

Note: Guidelines for assessment of the coating are contained in material specification GOE 530.
 Material Specification
Coatings
GOE 240 A
Reference: PT-13 Issue date: 09.2006

Material:
PVD – coating CrN [O]

Process:
Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD)

Technological properties:
High wear resistant coating

Crystal structure:
CrN predominant (200) orientated 1)

Oxygen content:
O: 3 – 15 wt % 2)

Coating hardness:
1500 – 2200 HV 0.1 3)

1)
Measured by X-Ray Diffractometer
2)
Measured by Electron Probe Micro Analyser
3)
Measured from the surface, load depending on coating thickness. Penetration depth of indentor should not
exceed 10% of the coating thickness.
 Material Specification
Coatings
GOE 242 A
Reference: PT-11 Issue date: 09.2006

Material:
PVD – coating CrN

Process:
Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD)

Technological properties:
High wear resistant coating

Crystal structure:
CrN predominant (200) orientated 1)

Coating hardness:
800 – 1400 HV 0.1 2)

Measured by X-Ray Diffractometer

1)

Measured from the surface, load depending on coating thickness.

2)

Penetration depth of indentor should not exceed 10% of the coating thickness.
 Material Specification
Coatings
GOE 243 A
Reference: PT-14 Issue date: 03.2008

Material:
PVD – coating CrN [O]

Process:
Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD)

Technological properties:
High wear and scuff resistant coating

Crystal structure:
CrN predominant (200) orientated 1)

Oxygen content:
O: 3 – 15 wt % 2)

Coating hardness:
1400 – 2200 HV 0.1 3)

1)
Measured by X-Ray Diffractometer
2)
Measured by Electron Probe Micro Analyser
3)
Measured from the surface, load depending on coating thickness. Penetration depth of indentor should not
exceed 10% of the coating thickness
 Material Specification
Coatings
GOE 245 A
Reference: Issue date: 12.2007

Material:
DLC coating

Process:
Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD)

Technological properties:
Low friction, high scuff resistant coating

etched with HNO3
Coating type: *
a-C:H:Me

Note: * Coating type according to VDI 2840 Carbon films

 Material Specification
Coatings
GOE 250 A
Reference: O 25, RES-M/525 Issue date: 01.00

Coating designation:
NT

Process:
nitriding and nitrocarburizing
of alloyed steels

Nitrided case depth:

Nht 700 HV 0.1:
etched with HNO3 30 : 1
as per drawing

etched with HNO3 500 : 1

Typical hardness curve

HV 0,1
1200

1000

800
GH
600

400

200

Nitrided case depth

Note: The nitrided case depth is determined according to DIN 50190 part 3.
 AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS
A
Issue date: 11.02

Testing Instructions

Designation Reference Coverage Scope

modulus of elasticity
quality testing (all
GOE 504 B 14 bending strength
material specifications)
diametral force

hardness testing
bending strength
quality testing (all
GOE 505 B 15 structure testing
material specifications)
thermal testing
hot hardness

preparation
thermal spray coatings
GOE 520 B 24 coating characterization
(GOE 200 - 205, 210)
coating hardness

electrochemically preparation
GOE 530 B 27 deposited hard chromium coating characterization
(GOE 230 - 234) coating hardness
 Material Specification
Piston Rings
GOE 504 A
Reference: B 14 Issue date: 11.02

Quality Control of Piston Rings

- Formulae -
d
Ft ( a -1)
3

modulus of elasticity E in MPa E = 14.14 *)

m.h
Ft = tangential force in N
d = ring nominal diameter in mm
a = radial wall thickness in mm
h = axial width in mm
m = free gap in mm

*) valid for rectangular rings

(6d - 5a)
bending strength σ bB in MPa σ bB = FbB *)
FbB h . a2
FbB = breaking load in N
d = ring nominal diameter in mm
a = radial wall thickness in mm
h = axial width in mm

*) valid for rectangular rings

FbB

diametral force Fd in N

related to nominal diameter:

Fd = 2.05 · Ft for untreated and hardened + tempered

grey cast irons
Fd = 2.15 · Ft for nodular cast irons

These are empirically determined values.

The theoretical correlation between tangential force Ft (measured with flexible steel
band) and diametral force Fd at nominal diameter is determined by:

Fd = 2.21 · Ft
 Material Specification
Piston Rings
GOE 505 A
Issue date: 11.02

Quality Testing of Piston Rings

- Test Methods -

Hardness Test (as detailed in the applicable specifications)

Base Materials:
HRB to DIN EN ISO 6508-1 on cast irons,
HB to DIN EN ISO 6506-1 on cast irons,
HRC to DIN EN ISO 6508-1 on harder materials (e.g. steel),
HV 30 to DIN EN ISO 6507/1 on rings with high hardness and small wall thickness,
HV 5 to DIN EN ISO 6507/1 on rings with high hardness and small wall thickness.

The hardness data are averages of three measurements on a single ring: 1st measurement at gap;
2nd measurement 90° from gap; 3rd measurement diametrically opposite the gap.

Material evaluations must be based entirely on measured values; values obtained by conversion are only
approximate.

Coatings:
HV 1 to DIN EN ISO 6507/2: Coating hardness of plasma spray coatings,
HV 0.05 to DIN EN ISO 6507/3: Particle hardness of multi-phase spray coatings,
HV 0.1 to DIN EN ISO 6507/3: Coating hardness of chromium and molybdenum coatings.

Bending Strength Test

The piston rings are stretched open tangentially at a rate of between 0.5 and 1.0 m/min until they break.
On ductile materials the bending strength cannot be determined accurately using this method.

Structure Test
Base materials:
Cross-section about 90° from the gap, evaluation zone is mainly the outer third of the section, structure is
rated according to the applicable specification or the classification chart.

Scales of magnification for structural examination: Graphite structure 100 : 1

Matrix 500 : 1
Phosphide eutectic 20 : 1

Thermal spray coatings: see specification GOE 520

Electrochemically deposited chromium coatings: see specification GOE 530

Thermal Test
on piston rings: annealing temperature 300°C, time 3 h
on spring loaded rings: annealing temperature 250°C, time 5 h
on steel oil control rings: annealing temperature 220°C, time 5 h

Tangential force loss after heating under installation stress, as per DIN ISO 6621, Part 5.

Hot Hardness
Annealing temperatures: 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600°C
Hardness indentations HB 2.5/187.5 at each of the annealing temperatures, measurement of indentations
at room temperature, hot hardness stated as the average of 6 tests at each temperature level.
 Material Specification
GOE 520
A
Reference: B 24 Issue date: 01.03

Testing Guidelines for Spray Coatings on Piston Rings

For determining the material data of spray coatings on piston rings the procedures employed in specimen preparation
and testing are vitally important. It is therefore necessary to establish testing guidelines for spray coatings, so that
reproducible material data can be obtained. Quality evaluations of spray coatings are permissible only on non enginerun
rings; examinations of engine-run coatings primarily yield information on performance in engine operation.
Spray coatings are tested by destructive and non-destructive methods. Destructive testing comprises an analytical
test (e.g. chemical analysis) and a metallographic investigation. The non-destructive procedure consists, for example,
of visual inspection, surface crack testing and measurement of the coating thickness.

1 Metallographic Preparation

The specimens used in the metallographic examination of spray coatings and in hardness testing require
meticulous preparation. The procedure to be used depends on the type of spray coating. For plasma, flame
and HVOF coatings the following procedure is standard:

1.1 The ring of interest is cut radially at several points around the circumference using an abrasive wheel. In order
to prevent the ring from heating at the cutting point, a wet cutting process must be used and the rate of
advance should not be too fast. The cut must always be made working from the coating towards the base
material.

1.2 The cut ring segments are mounted on-end in a plastic compound such that the coated running face of each
segment rests as tightly as possible against the inside face of its neighbouring segment (see sketch below).
The ring pieces may be lined up in several adjacent rows. To protect the spray coating of ring segments which
are so large that they can only be mounted singly, a piece of cast iron or steel is placed in front of the coating
and is cast in together with the ring segment.

For reasons of economy, hot mounting is often preferred to cold mounting. In the case of plasma and flame
sprayed coatings the specimen temperature when using a hot mounting press should not exceed 140°C.
HVOF sprayed coatings may be mounted within a range of 160°C-170°C. Generally it is useful to allow a
warm-up phase of 2 - 3 mins before pressing. After removing the specimens, they must be clearly inscribed
on the back or outer surface!
1.3 The specimens must always be ground such that the abrasive grain presses the spray coating against the
substrate metal. Whenever possible an automatic preparation machine should be used in preference to manual
preparation. It should be remembered that the polishing agents and cloths supplied by different manufactur-
ers vary in quality and the quality of the cloths changes with length of use. Where there is doubt, polishing
agents and new cloths from the same manufacturer must be used and the polishing must be carried out on
an automatic machine.

The procedure for plasma and flame sprayed coatings is as follows:

First, 2 to 3 mm of the specimen should be removed by wet grinding in order to take off any damage caused
in the cutting operation. This rough grinding is performed with 60 or 80 grit (average grain size 260 or 196
μm) ensuring that no heat is generated.

Rough grinding is followed by the actual grinding procedure using wet-quality silicon carbide abrasive paper
in a diameter of 230 or 250 mm in the following sequence:

Grit 180
Grit 220
Grit 320
Grit 1000
Grit 1200

The maximum permitted speed of the grinding wheels is 560 rpm up to 1000 grit and 280 rpm with 1200 grit.
The specimens must be ground with each grade of paper until the abrasive marks from the previous grinding
operation have been removed.

1.4 After superfine grinding, the section must be cleaned in the ultrasonic bath for a short time, max 2 minutes.

1.5 The section is polished with diamond, the following guide data being important for obtaining a mark-free
polished section:

flame sprayed molybdenum coatings

grain size 3 μm, polishing time about 5 mins.

metallic and metal-ceramic plasma coatings

grain size 3 μm, polishing time about 5 mins, then ultrasonic cleaning and
grain size 1/4 μm, polishing time about 7 mins.

1.6 After final polishing, the specimen should first be washed under running water to remove remains of polishing
medium and then rinsed in alcohol and dried in warm air.

1.7 The etching of the specimen in order to differentiate different phases is carried out with a suitable etchant.
All-molybdenum and high-molybdenum coatings are etched by the Murakami method using an aqueous
solution with the following composition:

0.2 g potassium ferricyanide

0.2 g potassium hydroxide
40 ml distilled water.

The etchant must be freshly prepared before use and must not be warmed.

The procedure for metal-ceramic HVOF spray coatings, while heeding the preceding remarks, is as follows:

1.8 If the section was cut slowly and with cooling fluid it will be sufficient to grind off 1-1.5 mm with the wet abrasive
wheel (60 or 80 grit) in order to remove any damage caused by cutting. As HVOF coatings are harder and
more brittle, this grinding operation must be carried out with extreme care since damage to the surface of the
specimen, with effects deeper down, can occur at this early stage.
1.9 The subsequent grinding operation covers the following steps in the stated sequence:

Grit 220
Grit 320
Grit 800
Grit 1200
Grit 4000

The abrasive wheel speed should be 300 rpm and the contact pressure should be 200 N for 4 specimens. The
specimens must be ground with each grade of paper for 45 sec. The 220 grade is used twice, all other grades
once. The best grinding results are obtained if the specimen mount contains 4 specimens and the grinding
is performed automatically. If necessary dummy specimens should be used to make up the number.

1.10 After superfine grinding, the section must be cleaned in the ultrasonic bath for a short time, max 2 minutes,
using e.g. ethyl alcohol.

1.11 Polishing is best performed using napped cloths and observing the following guide data:

grain size 1 μm, polishing time about 1.5 min, 150 rpm, 100 N for 4 specimens.

1.12 Etching may be carried out using the same procedure as in 1.7. The concentration of the Murakami formula
may vary, in which case the etching times will change accordingly. The chromium carbide-containing phase
is not etched, while the tungsten carbide-containing phase is strongly etched and takes on a dark tone in the
optical microscope.

2 Quality Characteristics

The following quality characteristics of spray coatings are tested:

2.1 Chemical Composition

2.2 Coating Porosity

2.3 Pore Size

2.4 Microstructure and Phase Distribution

2.5 Unmelted Particles and Reaction Products

2.6 Microcracks and Fissures

2.7 Coating Hardness

2.8 Particle and Phase Hardness

2.9 Running Face Porosity, Voids, Cracks, Bond Defects between Coating and Inlay Groove Land
(on Inlaid Rings)

2.10 Coating Thickness

The following must be considered when testing the stated quality characteristics

2.1 Chemical Composition

The spray coating is removed from the ring for analysis by stretching the ends of the ring apart or striking it
until the coating comes free. The coating is then crushed. If the coating is contaminated with base material
the analysis must be suitably corrected. The analysis is performed using analytical procedures (e.g. AAS)
appropriate to the elements being tested.

2.2 Coating Porosity

The porosity of spray coatings is evaluated on the unetched microsection. It is important for the evaluation
to be carried out on representative areas of the coating. In the case of inlaid spray coatings the areas near
to the inlay groove walls are not to be considered as representative because in these regions turbulence is
generated in the spray jet during spraying and this can result in greater porosity.

The specifications define maximum values for the porosity of representative areas of coating on full-face
sprayed, half-inlaid and fully inlaid piston rings.

The porosity in the inlay groove wall region may be twice the value of the representative area. The size of
the inlay groove wall region y is defined by the function y = cx, where c is an empirically determined constant
and x the actual coating thickness.

For the inlay groove wall designs used up to now the value for c is 1.25.

The coating porosity can be determined by 2 methods:

2.2.1 The pores in the coating areas are measured with a quantitative image analyzer. The surface area of all
measured pores is set in relation to the area of the measurement field. The average of 30 measurement fields
with a cumulative area of about 1.5 mm² is calculated for each ring.

2.2.2 The pores in the coating areas are estimated by comparing them against a classification chart containing
photomicrographs of known porosities.
2.3 Pore Size

Pore sizes are stated as a size distribution percentage. All pores in representative measurement fields are
measured for size in the unetched section and placed into size classes. The measurements are best
performed by quantitative image analysis as in 2.2.1.

The number of all measured pores is set equal to 100%. The material specifications for the respective spray
coatings state the percentage of pores smaller than a specific value. An additional value is stated for the
maximum size of individual pores.

The specification further states the maximum pore size in the radial direction relative to the coating
thickness.

2.4 Microstructure and Phase Distribution

The microstructure and the phase distribution of spray coatings are assessed on the etched microsection.
As these variables are difficult to quantify, the evaluation is performed by means of comparison against a
classification chart for the spray coating concerned.

The photomicrographs contained in the specifications represent only „averages“.

2.5 Unmelted Particles and Reaction Products

As a result of the spray process, plasma and flame sprayed coatings contain unmelted or only partially melted
spray particles as well as reaction products usually of an oxidic nature.

Unmelted particles are recognizable as more or less round inclusions in the coating structure; reaction products
can be present as thin layers between the coating lamellae. The permissible size and number of unmelted
particles per sectional area is stated. The permissible shape and amount of reaction products is defined with
the aid of reference micrographs (classification chart).

In the case of HVOF sprayed coatings it is the specific aim not to melt the spray powder but rather to compact
the softened particles. Therefore unmelted particles in HVOF spray coatings are not a negative quality
characteristic.

2.6 Microcracks and Fissures

Microcracks in the structure of spray coatings are short cracks discernible at 100x or greater magnification
running between the coating lamellae or transversely across them. Fissures are lengthy cracks within fairly
large coating areas or between the coating and the substrate metal.

The evaluation of spray coatings for microcracks and fissures is carried out on the unetched microsection.
Microcracks are allowable, fissures are not.

Note: A ghost line at the coating to base material interface may be caused by relief formation during
specimen preparation and will prevent a clear evaluation of the adhesion of the coating to the base
material. If there is any doubt, the section must be suitably illuminated at an angle or an SEM
micrograph taken in order to discriminate between a ghost line and a genuine fissure.

2.7 Coating Hardness

The coating hardness is measured according to Vickers as defined in DIN ISO 4516 and is stated as the
average of 10 useful individual measurements per ring. The average must lie within the tolerance stated in
the appropriate coating specification.

Measurements are carried out on the cross-section prepared as in 1.1 to 1.6 above. If the test area is too
small, several sections may be necessary.
 The test force applied is dictated by the type and thickness of the coating. As the coating hardness is an
integral quantity, the test force chosen should be such that the indentation will preferably extend over several
spray lamellae or structure phases.

The test forces to be applied are stated in the respective coating specifications.

2.8 Particle and Phase Hardness

The hardness of individual particles and phases is measured on the etched section usually with HV 0.05. For
very small particles and narrow phases it may be necessary to use a lower test force.

In accordance with DIN ISO 4516 the test force is applied with an impact velocity of the indentor onto the
specimen of 15-70 μm/sec. The equipment setting must not be altered for the duration of the test. The test
force is allowed to act for 10 to 15 sec during which time no jolts or vibrations must be permitted to interfere
with the applied force.

The average of 10 useful indentations is taken for each phase. The averages must lie within the tolerances
stated in the specification.

2.9 Running Face Porosity, Voids, Cracks, Bond Defects between Coating and Inlay Groove Land
(on Inlaid Rings)

These features, distinguishable on the running face, are influenced by the coating quality and above all by the
machining. Such running face defects are tested by visual inspection, if appropriate with magnification.

Guide values are laid down in DIN ISO 6621-5 for the evaluation of porosity and voids in the running face
and for assessment of the running face edges and the outer edges at the ring gap.

Macroscopic cracks in the running face are not permissible. If there is any doubt, a decision is made based
on a suitable crack testing procedure.

There must be no bond defects visible on the running face in the form of fissures between the coating and
inlay groove land. However, allowance must be made for the occurrence of a partly discontinuous bond as
a result of the unavoidably greater porosity of the coating structure caused by turbulence in the spray jet in
the inlay groove wall region.

2.10 Coating Thickness

The thickness of spray coatings is determined with a device for measuring non-ferromagnetic coatings on
ferromagnetic base materials (e.g. Permaskop). Standard reference values for different ring designs (full-
face sprayed or inlaid) are obtained based on microscopic coating thickness measurements on radial cross-
sections.

The coating thickness is measured in the middle of the coating at three points around the ring circumference in
accordance with DIN ISO 6621-2 and -4. The measured values must correspond to the drawing specification,
with permissible tolerances stated in DIN ISO 6621-5.

The piston rings must be sufficiently demagnetized prior to measuring.

If there is any doubt, the coating thickness must be determined on the radial cross-section.
 Classification Chart for Porosity Evaluation
of Thermal Spray Coatings
(Appendix to section 2.2 of the Guidelines)

Percentage Porosity

approx. 2 %

approx. 5 %

approx. 10 %

approx. 15 %

approx. 20 %

unetched 200 : 1
 Material Specification
Inspection Instructions
GOE 530 A
Reference: B 27 Issue date: 11.01

Guidelines for Assessment of Electrochemically Deposited Hard Chromium Coatings

Reinforced with Hard Particles

1 Scope

The specification describes inspection procedures for determining parameters of the material specifications
GOE 230 (CKS 36), GOE 234 (CKS 37), GOE 231 (CKS 38), GOE 232 (GDC 50) and GOE 233 (GDC 52).

2 Parameters

The following parameters are assessed:

• Microcrack density of the coating containing hard particles
• Proportion of hard particles in the coating
• Grain size of the hard particles
• Coating hardness
• Structure of the graduated coating
For assessment of the stated parameters the following procedures must be observed:

2.1 Microcrack density of the coating containing hard particles

The crack density is determined on running face specimens of ring segments prepared according to the
following guidelines:

2.1.1 Sampling
A segment is cut from any desired part of each ring using a wet cutting machine.

2.1.2 Mounting
The cut segments are placed into the mounting mould with their running face on the base of the mould.
To protect the coating, a piece of cast iron or steel is placed in front of the segments and cast-in together
with them (see sketch).
 In the case of hot mounting, the specimen temperature must not exceed 170°C.
Depending on the size of the ring and specimens, from 1 to 4 segments can be mounted and prepared
simultaneously.

2.1.3 Grinding
The grinding must be carried out with SiC wet-grinding paper using the following grades in succession:

Grit 220
Grit 320
Grit 600
Grit 1200
Grit 4000

In order to expose the whole structure of the coating the coarsest grade of paper is used until the base material
becomes just visible (see sketch).

2.1.4 Polishing
Polishing is carried out using a 1μm diamond suspension until the specimens are free from scratch marks
and the contours of the hard particles are sharply defined.

2.1.5 Etching
For determining the crack density the microcrack network is made more visible by means of electrolytic
etching using 5% NaOH at room temperature with a current density of 30 A/dm².

2.1.6 Determining the microcrack density

Two 50 mm-long diagonally intersecting straight lines are placed in the image window at 100x magnification.
The microcrack density is determined from the sum of the number of cracks intersected by the two
straight lines.
The crack density can also be determined using an image analyzer with a suitable evaluation program.
2.2 Proportion of hard particles in the coating

The proportions of hard particles in the coating are analyzed by wet chemical means and converted to %
by volume. For the conversion from percent by volume to percent by weight the following specific weights
must be applied:

Cr : 7.0 g/cm3
Al2O3 : 3.94 g/cm3
Diamond : 3.5 g/cm3

2.3 Grain size of the hard particles

The size of the hard particles is assessed microscopically at 1000x magnification on the unetched speci-
men.

2.4 Coating hardness

The coating hardness HV 0.1 is determined as the average of 5 measurements on the polished running face
in accordance with DIN EN ISO 6507/3.

2.5 Structure of the graduated coating

The structure of the coating is examined on the cross-section prepared in the same manner as the running
face section described in 2.1. The coating thicknesses are measured under the optical microscope at 100x
magnification. The measured thickness of the coating containing hard particles is stated in relation to the
overall coating thickness.

3 Other coating features

3.1 Running face porosity

Microporosity on the running face is typical for the process and the type of coating.
Pores with a diameter > 150 μm are not permissible.
 International Piston Ring Standards ISO 6621-1 ... ISO 6627
( Overview: April 2008 )

ISO - Desig. Edition Title (concise description) S t a t u s Remarks

Standard is ...

ISO 6621-1 11 / 2007 Vocabulary current edition

ISO 6621-2 11 / 2003 Inspection measuring principles current edition
ISO 6621-3 09 / 2000 Material specifications current edition
ISO 6621-4 10 / 2003 General specifications current edition
ISO 6621-5 12 / 2005 Quality requirements current edition

ISO 6622-1 12 / 2003 Rectangular rings made of cast iron current edition
ISO 6622-1 10 / 2003 Rectangular rings made of steel current editione

ISO 6623 02 / 2004 Scraper rings made of cast iron being revise edition ca. 2009

ISO 6624-1 08 / 2001 Keystone rings made of cast iron current edition
ISO 6624-2 10 / 2003 Half keystone rings made of cast iron current edition
ISO 6624-3 08 / 2001 Keystone rings made of steel acurrent edition
ISO 6624-4 10 / 2003 Half keystone rings made of steel current edition

ISO 6625 12 / 1986 Oil control rings current edition

ISO 6626 07 / 1989 Coil spring loaded oil control rings current edition
ISO 6626-2 10 / 2004 Coil spring loaded oil control rings current edition
of narrow width made of cast iron
ISO 6626-3 neu Coil spring loaded oil control rings in preparation edition ca. 2008
made of steel

ISO 6627 09 / 2000 Expander / segment oil control rings being revised edition ca. 2009