What does piston rings look like?

Piston rings are typically thin, circular bands made of metal, often with a slightly oval cross-section to ensure a tight fit within the cylinder. They are designed to fit snugly around the piston, forming a seal against the cylinder wall to prevent the escape of combustion gases and to control oil consumption. The rings can have various surface finishes and coatings to enhance durability and performance. Their appearance may vary slightly depending on the specific type and design, such as compression rings or oil control rings.