Quantifying Parameters Relevant to Liner Cavitation on a Diesel Engine

A test method has been developed that evaluates power cylinder components and engine conditions to determine their effect on liner cavitation damage. This evaluation has become more important as the power density increases. This method shows promise to shorten time to production by quantifying the extent of cavitation damage by measuring parameters critical to cavitation verses crank angle. A factorial test was performed which evaluated engine variables such as speed, load, coolant temperature and coolant pressure as to their effect on cavitation.