Abstract: A sealing system for sliding sleeves for controlling gas exchange in internal combustion engines. The sealing system is designed such that the pressure on the sealing seat of the sliding sleeve increases when the gas pressure increases, which is similar to that of common valves in internal combustion engines. This is obtained by way of a pressure stage on the inner diameter in the region of the sealing seat of the sliding sleeve. As a result, the maximum outer diameter of the sealing seat does not exceed the inner diameter of the piston running surface of the sliding sleeve, the closing pressure acting upon the sliding sleeve being equal to or greater than the maximum possible opening pressure acting upon the sliding sleeve even when the sealing seat is subjected to a total gas pressure.

Abstract: A gas exchange control mechanism for an opposed-piston engine which opens and closes inlet and outlet slots provided in the cylinder irrespective of the position of the pistons. The opposed pistons are guided completely or partially during stroke in sliding sleeves during operation of the engine. The sleeves may reciprocate mechanically, electrically, pneumatically or hydraulically in a linear manner. The sliding sleeves are adapted to open and close gas guide channels located in the engine housing.