Abstract: An engine cylinder head can be induction hardened in surface areas contacted by the heads of fastener bolts that are use to fasten the cylinder head to the cylinder block. The hardened surface areas, surrounding the bolt holes, are resistant to fatigue cracking that can otherwise result from thermal and mechanical stresses imposed by the fastener bolt head surfaces.

Abstract: A thermal barrier coating and method of depositing the same on the surfaces of combustion chamber components in compression-ignition internal combustion engines is disclosed. The thermal barrier coating is a dual layer having a first metallic layer comprised of MCrAlY material deposited on the component surface. A porous ceramic layer comprised of Yttria partially stabilized zirconia or Ceria-Yttria partially stabilized zirconia is deposited on the metallic layer to impede the flow of heat therethrough. In operation, the metallic layer creates a mechanical bond between the component surface and the ceramic layer, allows for a smooth transition between the differing physical properties of the component and the ceramic layer and serves as a corrosion barrier by protecting the component from combustion gases and contaminants.

Abstract: A moderately high carbon alloy grey iron having a carbon content ranging from 3.4% to 3.6% by weight and a primary alloying addition of the combination of molybdenum and copper in amounts by weight ranging from 0.25% to 0.40% and from about 0.30% to 0.60%, respectively for achieving thermal fatigue resistance and good machinability without adversely affecting chill depth, and with a relatively low silicon content of about 1.80% to 2.10%. The alloyed grey iron having the characteristics of:(i) a microstructure of a fully pearlitic matrix having a refined eutectic cell size, and graphite present in substantially uniform distribution and random orientation, the graphite having a flake size of predominantly 5-7 ASTM;(ii) a tensile strength of at least 40,000 psi in the desired section size;(iii) a hardness of about 179 to about 229 Brinell.