One of the key parts of a modern engine dynamometer is the torque sensor. But how do these sensors work and what recent developments have there been in sensing technology? The vast majority of conventional systems for measuring torque operate by measuring the torsional deflection induced by the applied torque, by one of two methods: measurement of twist angle and measurement of surface strain changes. The twist angle method of torque measurement generally requires a portion of the...
Originally introduced in 1948 alongside Buick’s two-speed Dynaflow transmission, the torque converter originally helped make transmissions fully automatic, eliminating the clutch necessary for manual transmissions. Many roadcars are still fitted with torque converters, but in motorsport they survive solely in the domain of drag racing. What makes torque converters unique is the transfer of power from the engine to the transmission, with fluid being the only connecting factor, allowing...
The development of a race engine is most often concerned with maximising efficiency. An integral part of many engine development projects is improved ‘breathing’, and in addition to developing the inlet system, combustion chamber and exhaust, the optimisation of valve lift profiles to suit the engine is a common way to find performance from the top end of the engine. In a number of articles in Race Engine Technology magazine, the importance of maintaining control of the...