A Double Ended Brake Test Rig with Inertia Simulation

Brake test rigs are normally designed with variable flywheel sets. This paper describes a method to simulate variable moments of inertia at a fixed flywheel electrically by means of electrical drive and both power and control electronics. We shall describe the simulation procedure and both the mechanical and electrical structure. We shall list the advantages of the procedure: shorter constructional length, increased ease of operation and time saving and a high degree of automation i. e. by computerized calculation of the moment of inertia. Owing to its short constructional length, the procedure is particularly suitable for double ended brake test rigs. A process utilizing the cooling gaps has been developed and tested: Two identical or different test pieces may be tested in time-sharing mode. We shall compare the simulation process with the results of conventional test rigs.