Abstract
A full-bead of multi-layer-steel engine head gasket, taking charge of the dynamic sealing of combustion chamber, is susceptible to fatigue failure. The fatigue durability of full-bead was assessed with the finite element analysis results and the high-cycle multi-axial fatigue theory. The assessment aimed to reveal the effects of the forming parameters and dimensions of full-bead. The results show that the selection of embossing parameters producing less deformation of bead plate is beneficial for the improvement of durability while the flatting has marginal influence. The fatigue durability also improves with the increase in the width of full-bead and the radial length of bore-side flat region. However, the dimensional effects are limited due to the occurrence of snap-through.