State-of-the-art NVH dynamometer enhances AP Racing’s new R&D facility

MIA member AP Racing has prepared the following press release.

AP Racing’s latest state-of-the-art noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) dynamometer is now fully operational – further enhancing its world-class capabilities at its new R&D facility in Coventry.

The dyno will enable AP Racing to ramp up development and testing of high-performance braking systems for race and road vehicle markets. The leading manufacturer of performance brake and clutch systems has invested £1.5 million in the cutting-edge Model 3900 from specialist manufacturer Link.

Using the dyno, AP Racing can simulate all braking manoeuvres performed on a vehicle from high speed stops and track use, to low-speed brake drag protocols. The dyno also includes an environmental control chamber capable of mounting the vehicle suspension corner and performing temperature and humidity controlled tests from -40 to +70 degrees Celsius. 

NVH is becoming an increasingly important element of brake refinement as internal combustion engines are gradually being replaced by ‘silent’ electric powertrains. The NVH dyno allows the vehicle brake systems to be tested on representative suspension at an early prototype stage and potential NVH issues recognised and solved before a prototype vehicle is built or assessed at a proving ground. Therefore, vehicle build phases can be eliminated, reducing program costs and lead times for the vehicle manufacturer.

In addition to the core NVH capabilities, the dyno has fixtures which enable AP Racing engineers to measure brake drag (important for range sensitive electric vehicles) and mount vehicle suspension corners for more detailed NVH studies. The dyno facility is designed to run unmanned during many of the standardised tests, which further reduces product development lead times as testing can be carried out 24 hours a day. 

The NVH dynamometer has been installed inside AP Racing’s new R&D area. This is within its 2,700m2 production facility that incorporates industry-leading technology for the manufacture of performance car brake calipers.

The facility has increased AP Racing’s production capacity at its West Midlands headquarters, whilst enabling it to achieve the highest levels of product traceability, quality and security. This is alongside offering the flexibility to support the company’s full range, including motorsport and performance upgrades.

David Hamblin, MD of AP Racing, enthused: “We are excited to see the NVH dynamometer installed and fully operational. It is a hugely impressive piece of machinery with exceptionally precise R&D capabilities.

“This latest investment completes the next step in our growth plan and is further evidence of the company’s commitment to maintaining a world-class R&D facility here in Coventry.”

For more information visit: www.apracing.com