Froude Hofmann ships mobile, containerised Test Cells
View on the Froude Hofmann group site
Thursday 22nd October 2009
We are pleased to announce the successful completion of a self-contained transportable twin-cell containerised engine test facility designed for Quality Audit testing of multi-fuel engines up to 150kW.
The facility was fully assembled and tested in our factory before being transported to site.
Designed for external location in a tropical climate, the facility comprises four 3M x 3M x 6M bespoke containerised modules - two test cells, a common control room and a services room.
Each of the test cells can be operated independently and incorporates test bench; engine circuits; Texcel V12 control system and a comprehensive instrumentation package.
In the test cell the test bench is mounted on anti-vibration mounts that provide vibration isolation from the main container structure. The engine is mounted on one of 4 test trolleys that are installed in the test cell through a side door; this arrangement places the engine directly in front of the control room observation window for optimum visibility. The engine is mounted to the test trolley using standard in-vehicle components and is tested in the in-vehicle inclination.
The engine load is provided by an AG eddy-current dynamometer; although an equivalent AC electric dynamometer can could be substituted if preferred. The drive-line utilizes modified vehicle belhousing and a vehicle clutch to ensure in-vehicle mounting compatibility and dampen torsional vibration.
The temperature of all engine media, including combustion air, fuel, coolant and lubrication oil, is accurately controlled by the test bed control system.
Supporting services for the facility are located in the common services room, or on the cell roof; these include test cell ventilation, combustion air, water cooling; engine exhaust extract and fire protection system etc.
The Texcel V12 control system allows unattended engine testing, and controls all functions of the facility. The engine is subject to both standard and bespoke test cycles to check performance, fuel consumption, reliability and component wear. Instrumentation includes fuel consumption, blow-by, AFR as well as various temperatures and pressures.