Axle Efficiency Test Stands

Southwest Research Institute® (SwRI®) has developed axle efficiency test stands to rank and

quantify gear lubricants with respect to hypoid axle performance. Accurate measurement of axle speeds, torques and fluid temperatures enables precise efficiency calculation.

The newest axle efficiency test stand can accommodate a broad range of operating conditions, axle sizes and designs. Use of an oversized dynamometer provides high torque at low operating speeds. The stand is capable of evaluating beam-type light-duty axles. Special care has been taken in component selection to enable measurement of small differences in lubricant efficiencies.

FeaturesEach stand employs full computer data acquisition and control. Features include:

•Advanced drive technology

•Variable-speed electric motors

•Pinion input speeds from 0 to 3,000 rpm

•High-accuracy torque meters

•Stable speed control

•Ambient test cell temperature control

• Input torque control via axle load

•Variable data acquisition frequencies

•Easy customization to specific client needs

Test ProfilesThe test stands may also be used for axle hardware and buildup specification evaluations. Efficiency differences related to gear tooth design, low friction finishes or coatings are routinely evaluated. Examples of typical test profiles are:

•Seal drag and windage losses

•EPA highway fuel economy simulation

•SAE J1321 simulation

•Losses at steady-state conditions

A typical axle installation includes provisions for heating and cooling the axle sump.

D01

6346

D01

8698

The test stands are driven by electric motors and are equipped with high-accuracy torque meters.

Brian P. Koehler, Principal Engineer Specialty and Driveline Fluids EvaluationsFuels and Lubricants Research Division(210) 522-3588brian.koehler@swri.org

Southwest Research Institute6220 Culebra Road • P.O. Box 28510San Antonio, TX 78228-0510

swri.orgaxleefficiency.swri.org

Southwest Research Institute is an independent, nonprofit, applied engineering and physical sciences research and development organization using multidisciplinary approaches to problem solving. The Institute occupies 1,200 acres in San Antonio, Texas, and provides more than 2 million square feet of laboratories, test facilities, workshops, and offices for nearly 3,000 employees who perform contract work for industry and government clients.

We welcome your inquiries. For additional information, please contact:

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