Systems and methods are provided for a cantilever beam arrangement that preloads ring segments in a multi0segment piston ring arrangement. A piston assembly comprises a piston that comprises a land. A ring segment is arranged against the land. The ring segment comprises a radially inner surface, a radially outer surface for sealing against a bore, and a boss located on the radially inner surface. The piston assembly also includes a beam spring having a proximal end attached to the piston and a distal end in contact with the boss. The beam spring forces at least a portion of the ring segment radially outward by applying a force on the boss.