A dinamómetro (commonly called a “dyno”) is a precision measurement instrument used to measure force, esfuerzo de torsión, fuerza, y velocidad de rotación in mechanical systems. In industrial testing, dynamometers form the core of test bench systems used to validate motors, motores, cajas de cambios, and drivetrain components before they enter service.
Key Takeaways
- A dynamometer measures torque and rotational speed to determine the true mechanical power of motors, engines and powertrains.
- Four main families: eddy current (high speed), AC regenerative (four-quadrant with energy recovery), hidráulico (high power) and hysteresis/permanent magnet (small motors, full torque at zero speed).
- Select by torque range, velocidad máxima, accuracy class (typically ±0.2%–0.5% FS) and cooling method — not by price alone.
- EconoTest dynamometers span 0.1 Nm a 2,000 Nm with speeds up to 50,000 RPM across hysteresis, eddy current, magnetic powder and AC series.
What Is a Dynamometer?
A dynamometer test bench creates a controlled load against which the device under test (DUT) must work. By precisely measuring the torque and speed, engineers calculate power output, eficiencia, and performance characteristics across the full operating range. The fundamental equation: Fuerza (KW) = Torque (Nuevo Méjico) × Speed (RPM) ÷ 9550
Types of Dynamometers
1. Eddy Current Dynamometer
Eddy current dynamometers use electromagnetic induction to create braking torque. A rotating conductive disc passes through a magnetic field, inducing eddy currents that oppose rotation. Ventajas: Fast response, no physical contact, wide speed range. Best for: Prueba de motor, high-speed motors, aerospace components.
2. AC Motor Dynamometer (Regenerative)
AC motor dynamometers use a variable-frequency-driven AC motor as the load. The motor absorbs power and returns energy to the grid — highly energy-efficient. Best for: Electric motor testing, e-axle testing, long-duration endurance tests.
3. Dinamómetro hidráulico
Hydraulic dynamometers use fluid friction to absorb power. Simple, robusto, very high power capacity. Best for: Marine engine testing, high-power industrial machinery.
4. Permanent Magnet Dynamometer
PM dynamometers offer excellent torque density and precise control at low speeds — ideal for testing small, high-precision motors and servo systems.
Key Parameters for Dynamometer Selection
- Maximum torque (Nuevo Méjico) — exceed peak DUT torque by 20-30%
- Maximum speed (RPM) — cover full operating range including overspeed
- Power rating (KW) — continuous and peak absorption capacity
- Precisión de par — typically ±0.1% to ±0.5% full scale
- Precisión de velocidad — typically ±0.01% using optical encoders
- Tiempo de respuesta — critical for transient and dynamic testing
Applications by Industry
Automotor & EV: Engine development, transmission testing, e-axle validation, end-of-line production testing. EV motor dynamometers measure efficiency maps, par máximo, and thermal limits across the full operating envelope.
Aeroespacial: Pruebas del generador de arranque de aeronaves, APU validation, electric actuation system testing. Compliance with MIL-STD-704 and DO-160 required.
Industrial Motor Testing: Type testing and routine production QC to IEC 60034-2-1 standards for IE3/IE5 efficiency classification.
Marina & Offshore: Ship propulsion motors, thruster systems, and diesel-electric generators under simulated sea load cycles.
Calibration Standards
- ISO 6789 — Torque measurement calibration
- IEC 60034-2-1 — Motor efficiency testing methods
- IEEE 112 — Polyphase induction motor test procedure
- SAE J1349 — Automotive engine power testing
EconoTest Dynamometer Solutions
EconoTest offers eddy current, AC regenerative, permanent magnet, and hydraulic dynamometer test benches from 0.5 kW a 5,000 kW and up to 50,000 RPM. Con 20+ years of experience y 1,000+ systems delivered en 50+ countries, we are your trusted dynamometer manufacturer. Contact us for a technical proposal.
FAQ
What is the difference between a dynamometer and a load bank?
A load bank absorbs electrical power; a dynamometer absorbs mechanical power (torque × speed) and measures it precisely for rotating machinery testing.
How much does a dynamometer test bench cost?
Costs range from USD 20,000 for small motor test stations to several million USD for large aerospace facilities, depending on power rating, exactitud, and automation. Contact EconoTest for a project quote.
Which dynamometer type is best for testing small electric motors?
Hysteresis dynamometers are ideal for fractional and low-power motors: 0.1–30 Nm torque range, full braking torque available even at zero speed, and ±0.2%–0.5% accuracy. They suit AC, corriente continua, BLDC and stepper motors.
What speed range can dynamometers cover?
Eddy current dynamometers reach up to 50,000 RPM, hysteresis models up to 30,000 RPM and AC dynamometers up to 18,000 RPM. Dedicated high-speed motor test benches extend coverage to 100,000 RPM.
How accurate are industrial dynamometers?
Typical torque accuracy is ±0.2%–0.5% of full scale depending on series and size. Precision AC dynamometer systems achieve ±0.2%, while aerospace-grade starter generator benches reach 0.05–0.1% FS.
