Microseizure in Cylinder Liners http://www.marinediesels.co.uk/members/operation/microsiezure.

htm

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Engine Operation
Microseizure in Cylinder Liners

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Microseizure is also known as scuffing or adhesive wear. Caused by lack of lubrication, it can lead to wear rates in
cylinder liners in excess of 1mm/1000hours (10 -20 times the normal rate).

The surfaces of the piston rings and cylinder liner

are not smooth, but viewed under a microscope
would show a series of peaks and troughs.
Normally these help the lubricating oil to adhere
to the surface. When there is a lack of oil, the
peaks rub against each other and the localised heat
generated by the friction causes the surfaces to
weld together and then break apart. As the
surfaces tear apart small pieces detach and cause
abrasion in the liner.

When inspecting liner and piston, it is important to look for evidence of microseizure. It manifests itself as vertical
scoring on the rubbing surfaces.

It is not necessary to wait for the piston to be removed

before carrying out an inspection. Liner, piston and rings
can be inspected through the scavenge ports on a two
stroke engine.

The photo shows the inspection door removed on a MAN

B&W MC engine, with the scavenge ports accessible for
an inspection.

This close up shows the ring inspection through the ports. The rings on this piston, removed from the engine show

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Microseizure in Cylinder Liners http://www.marinediesels.co.uk/members/operation/microsiezure.htm

These rings are in good condition. evidence of microseizure. Note the vertical scoring.

Microseizure in a liner..... Severe Microseizure!!

If microseizure is discovered, the rubbing surfaces can recover if correct lubrication is restored. This is assuming that the
liner has not reached its limit of wear, or that another form of abnormal wear associated with scuffing and acid attack,
known as cloverleafing has not taken place.

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