Articulating pistons use a steel crown section and a(n) ____________ skirt.

Articulating pistons are designed with a specific construction that allows them to operate effectively under various engine conditions. The inclusion of a steel crown section provides strength and durability, particularly in high-pressure environments. The skirt of the piston, on the other hand, is typically made from aluminum.

Aluminum is favored for the skirt because it is lightweight, which helps reduce the overall weight of the piston and, subsequently, the engine. Its good thermal conductivity also aids in dissipating heat, preventing premature wear and maintaining piston integrity during operation. Moreover, aluminum can be easily machined and forged, making it a practical choice for manufacturing complex shapes.

This combination of materials—steel for the crown and aluminum for the skirt—ensures that the piston has both the robustness required to withstand combustion pressures and the lightweight characteristics needed for efficiency in movement.