16 Feb New Amsoil Mechanical Laboratory Expands Testing Capabilities
AMSOIL recently unveiled its new mechanical testing laboratory, featuring three 480-sq. ft. dyno cells capable of housing a minimum of two dynamometers each.encompassing 8,500+ square feet of the AMSOIL Center, the new facility expands the company’s abilities to test engine oil performance on-site, allowing quicker and more thorough test results for current products, developing products and competing products in both normal and extreme operating conditions.
The Dyno Cells
Cell 1 houses state-of-the-art water brake dynamometer capable of absorbing up to 1,500 hp at the crankshaft. Critical engine parameters are measured and stored with the integrated data acquisition software. The cell is currently equipped with a two-cycle engine for the measurement of oil detergency properties. Snowmobile in-chassis testing, hand-held power equipment testing and small gasoline-engine testing will also be conducted on this dyno.
Cell 2 houses an eddy current dynamometer capable of absorbing up to 175 hp at the crankshaft. Using an electromagnetic brake for absorption, it provides precise load control that allows identification of very small differences in engine performance. Critical engine parameters are measured and stored using proprietary software. The GM 3800 Series II 3.8L V6 gasoline engine in this cell provides extremely hot temperatures and allows in-depth testing and measuring of deposits, wear and oil durability
Cell 3 houses a motorcycle-specific eddy current dynamometer capable of absorbing up to 200 hp at the rear wheel, with critical engine parameters measured and stored with the latest data acquisition software. A variable speed controlled fan simulates air speeds in excess of 65 mph during testing sequences. Designed for in-chassis testing of equipment such as motorcycles and ATVs, it currently holds a Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
The company’s investment in this new state-of-the-art dyno facility allows Amsoil to stay on the cutting edge of lubricant technology and generate marketing materials that demonstrate AMSOIL product performance
“The company’s investment in this new state-of-the-art dyno facility will make it easier for us to stay on the cutting edge marketing materials that demonstrate AMSOIL product performance,” said AMSOIL Executive Vice President and COO Alan Amatuzio. “Having this dyno facility on-site allows faster testing turnaround times, testing flexibility that allows us to modify conditions to measure different oil properties and unique testing not available elsewhere. This all leads to better products and quicker product development.”
“There are very few facilities in North America that have the combination of precision and capabilities available at the AMSOIL mechanical lab,” said AMSOIL Vice President, Technical Development Dan Peterson. “It gives AMSOIL the ability for testing, development and stress tests only available at major original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) or additive companies. The facilities and equipment are designed specifically for work in our main markets, we have the advantage of solving problems earlier. It allows us to not only do things that no one else is doing, but to do things others think are impossible.
Controlled Test Environment
Programmable Logic Control (PLC) automation of the air, water and fuel systems allows precise control of the testing environments within each cell, providing repeatable test results.