The effect of cylinder liners on engine performance is substantial. Typically, the cylinder surfaces were plateau honed. However, recently additional dimples or grooves were created on them. This work discusses the tribological impacts of textured cylinder liner surfaces based on a review of the literature. The results of the experimental research obtained using test rigs and fired engines were critically reviewed. In addition, the results of the modeling are shown. Circular oil pockets and grooves perpendicular to the sliding direction of piston rings of small depths were typically used. Surface texturing of the cylinder liners governs lubrication between the cylinder liner and the piston ring by an increase in oil film thickness near the reversal points leading to reductions in friction force and wear and in the fired engine to a decrease in fuel consumption and to an increase in power or torque. The correct texturing pattern ensures a decrease in the oil consumption, blow-by, and emissions of the internal combustion engine compared to plateau-honed surfaces. Considerations of future challenges are also addressed. The volume of lubricant reservoir in surface topography, called oil capacity, should be a substantial parameter characterizing textured surfaces.
Keywords: cylinder liner; friction; oil consumption; surface texturing; wear.