Honda Porsche fan wrote: ↑20 Jan 2023, 21:55
Are there any racing series that allow Metal Matrix Composite (MMC) pistons and other super alloys?
Are there any production automobiles that have engine parts made out of super alloys?
Could a race engine last longer and go longer between rebuilds if they had super alloy parts? If yes, then could teams find a way to save money in the long run by using super alloys if they did not have to rebuild the engine as often? The initial cost up front would be very expensive but I'm trying to think if the longevity and increase of the engine's service life would make up for it?
There are MotoCross and SuperCross engines out there with MMC parts. Some Moto3 components have been as well. Most non-professional drag racing and other racing series technically allow it but you never seen it there as these are hobbyist efforts.
The Cosworth T.50 V12 has MMC pistons and the Lanzante TAG project has MMC pistons as well.
Other than that you don’t see it much. It’s really only available for motorsports from one supplier, most professional series have rules against it and are usually power / rev capped in some way that existing materials from multiple vendors work, and etc.
OEMs don’t use them for the same reason plus costs. They’re in the business of making profits, not building no expense spared cars.
The marketing literature suggests there may be some performance improvement, but some of this stuff is hard to quantify.
The supplier:
https://materion.com/products/metal-mat ... automotive