Automobile Air Conditioning System Performance Evaluation

Criteria for the objective consideration of air cooling system performance acceptability are described. These include the ability to cool under “design load” conditions and the ability to modulate cooling output smoothly under less than design loads.

Various test techniques for measuring system behavior under laboratory and over-the-road conditions are also discussed. The controlled ambient test chamber is described, as are the 25 mph cool-down test, the city traffic test, road testing, and vehicle preparation. Data taking techniques and jury evaluation are also treated.