A numerical simulation of a reciprocating piston cooled by fluid is performed to investigate effects of frequency, amplitude and Reynolds number on heat transfer rate of the piston. For facilitating the analyses, the model of the reciprocating piston is replaced by a "Pi" shape cooling channel. This subject belongs to a kind of moving boundary problems, and the Finite Element Method and arbitrary Lagragian-Eulerian Kinematics description method are then utilized. The heat transfer mechanisms affected by the main parameters of frequency, amplitude and Reynolds number are discussed in detail. The results show that the heat transfer mechanisms influenced by the frequency are more remarkable than those influenced by the amplitude and Reynolds number. Besides, the larger the above three parameters are, the apparent enhancements of heat transfer are usually obtained. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.