Design of an Articulated Piston for Caterpillar^® 3500 Engines Utilizing Computer-Aided Design and Analysis

The purpose of this paper is to describe the concept, design, and analysis of a two-piece articulated piston for the Caterpillar 3500 diesel engine. Utilization of computer design and analysis enabled the piston to be optimized for structural capability, weight, and performance. Extensive analysis was performed on the steel upper structure. Models generated in two and three dimensions evaluated mechanical, thermal, and combined load cases. The result of this design and analysis is a piston that meets the engine’s objectives and provides additional value to the engine product.