DLC TREATED ENGINE BEARINGS

Max Bernardi

23 January 2017

A bearing’s ability to rotate has always been a fundamental aspect. There is a treatment that improves its friction value: DLC. Diamond Like Carbon

DLC TREATMENT IN AUTOMOBILES

DLC is an innovative, carbon-based coating that deals with problems related to abrasion, sliding and chemical aggression. Its application to mechanical components of automobile engines is primarily aimed at reducing fuel consumption and thus protecting the environment. The first treatments date back to 2001/2002, initially on heavy vehicles and later on automobiles. This sector, in particular, has prompted more and more research on new, more economic and effective treatment techniques. The main and most exploited characteristic of DLC in this field is its ability to slide: in fact, a reduction in friction and the energy in play results in lower oil consumption and a significant reduction in the emission of pollutants.

DLC treated camshaft, the coating is easily distinguished thanks to the dark colour of the material treated.

DLC TREATMENT IN THE FIELD OF RACING

In the field of competition, DLC technology appeared in F1 in the Nineties thanks to Jean Todt. The Frenchman used it on Peugeot engines and, subsequently, brought this know-how to Maranello when he became Managing Director of Ferrari F1. In 1996-97, everyone in F1 used DLC coatings, on valves and piston parts.

Jean Todt in the mid-‘60s. He was the first to introduce DLC into F1

"DLC IS AN INNOVATIVE CARBON-BASED COATING. IT IMPROVES SLIDING AND THE HARDNESS OF THE MATERIAL TREATED"