An improved engine-testing dynamometer

The authors show that the naturally commutated, converter-fed synchronous machine has features which make it particularly suited to being an engine testing dynamometer. The major part of the operating time of an engine testing dynamometer is likely to be in the absorbing mode, which in this case is a generating mode and one in which the system operates with a relatively high efficiency, a high degree of controllability and great reliability. A method is described whereby the potentially damaging effects of interruption of the mains, whilst in this mode, could be avoided.<>