Device is dyno-mite for on-road vehicle testing

A state-of-the-art “rolling road” device will help automotive students at Charles Darwin University understand the effects of various faults in on-road vehicles.

The dynamometer, or “dyno”, was built recently at the Casuarina campus vehicle shed to enhance students’ learning in automotive and auto-electrical courses without leaving the classroom.

Automotive and civil team leader Leith Darrach said the dyno would help students gain skills in fine-tuning a variety of engines for maximum economy and performance.

Mr Darrach said the dyno could measure the horsepower and torque of a vehicle and show students the performance of a vehicle on various simulated road conditions.

“We are very excited to have the Chassis Dynamometer on campus. It is one of the best on the market,” he said.

“The new machine brings us up with industry currency and is a safe way to demonstrate the effects of minor changes to fuel mapping, driveline vibrations and all-round road situations.”

Mr Darrach said the dyno was enclosed in a newly built raw classroom and testing facility for various vehicle sizes to ensure safety and control of noise generation.

He said the floor of the dyno would generate load to simulate road speed conditions, and could generate airflow in a state that was close to road speeds.