Intended for high-output, direct-injection turbocharged gasoline engines (GTDI), MSC312 top piston ring thermal spray coating features chromium nitride (CrN) composition that optimizes scuff-and-wear capabilities. Use of chromium nitride in top ring coating is applied through high-velocity oxygen fuel (HVOF) method, and addition of molybdenum-chrome provides enhancements to pure CrN. Coating thickness can be adjusted to meet engine durability requirements.