Dynamometer Definition

A dynamometer is piece of equipment used to test power in a vehicle's engine. Dynamometers typically are used to measure how much weight an engine can haul without malfunctioning. They are also utilized to measure aspects such as RPM (revolutions per minute) and acceleration.

Basics

Dynamometers come in different sizes and measure an engine's power via different methods. One type attaches directly to an engine, while the other is a larger piece of machinery that is placed underneath a vehicle's wheels. Both types of dynamometers are connected to computers that provide a reading of the engine's overall power.

Chassis Dynamometers

Chassis dynamometers consist of large rollers that are placed underneath a vehicle's tires. When a vehicle is revved up and its wheels spun, the chassis dynamometer is able to get an accurate reading of the engine's power.

Engine Dynamometers

Dynamometers that are attached onto an engine are done so after an engine has been removed from a vehicle. According to wordiq.com, these types of dynamometers "measure power and torque directly from an engine's crankshaft."

References

• WordIQ: Dynamometer Definition