Froude, Inc. Low Speed Dynamometers

Froude produces low-speed, very high power dynamometers for use with steam turbine and gearbox applications as well as for capital ship and cathedral engines. In fact, we are world leaders in the design and production of large dynamometers for testing piston, turbine and electric prime movers for the marine industry. We have a unique design which allows for simplified maintenance and vastly reduced installation time. The LS casing is carried on three spherically pivoted struts which incorporate load cells and hydraulic positioning rams, allowing the dynamometer to be quickly and easily coupled directly to the engine. This mechanism eliminates the need for an expensive intermediate drive shaft. As the dynamometer is free to follow the engine, there is reduced axial thrust; hence no special thrust bearing requirements. The lack of conventional trunnion bearings means the associated problem of brinelling due to transmission of engine vibration, has been totally eliminated.