PROBLEM

Test stands that use a variety of engines can often be a coupling problem. Our customer found out the hard way—in a short period of time when their drive shaft failed.

SOLUTION

We reviewed their test requirements and found that the most common combinations included two dynamometers and six engines. Based on the horsepower, speed, inertia and number of cylinders, we were able to identify two shafts to cover the twelve applications.

These special universal assemblies include a soft rubber section to dampen the engines torsional vibrations and move the critical speed out of the operating range. The suggested shafts were two different sizes and different torsional stiffnesses.

So far, so good—we gave them a listing of which shaft to use with which engine and dyno. These universal couplings allowed them to do extended testing without interruption.