Motor Test Stand Recommendation

[johnnyw]

Hello all, I am considering putting together a motor test stand that would include a motor under test (typically 3 phase, permanent magnet synchronous, 440 vac, 1200 rpm, 150 HP) directly coupled to a load motor. The load motor would then be wired to a load bank. The test stand would be used for testing drives and motors in the 150 HP range. I am considering a used DC motor (or possibly three-phase wound field synchronous motor) as the load machine. This way the load could be controlled by resistive load bank setting or by field control. Is there any advantages or short falls between these two options, or is there another option that makes more sense? The test stand has to be inexpensive so used equipment is mandatory. Used DC motors seem to be plentiful. Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[applicationsengineer]

johnnyw,
There is a more elegant design. I suggest to consider using vector 3 phase induction motor and line regenerative vector adjustable speed drive. You can have full torque range at any speed use energy more efficient way. The cost however is more then DC motor and resistor bank. Baldor Electric manufactures both motors and drives for dynamometer test applications.
Regards,
Stan Komander, PE
Baldor Electric

 

[skiier]

Was that a sales pitch? Hi five. You the man!Hehhe

 

[jbartos]

Comment on johnnyw (Electrical) May 7, 2004 marked ///\\Hello all, I am considering putting together a motor test stand that would include a motor under test (typically 3 phase, permanent magnet synchronous, 440 vac, 1200 rpm, 150 HP) directly coupled to a load motor. The load motor would then be wired to a load bank. The test stand would be used for testing drives and motors in the 150 HP range. I am considering a used DC motor (or possibly three-phase wound field synchronous motor) as the load machine. This way the load could be controlled by resistive load bank setting or by field control. Is there any advantages or short falls between these two options,
///DC motor will have the higher operational and maintenance costs.\\ or is there another option that makes more sense?
///Check electromagnetic break/coupling, e.g. at

http://www.magnadrive.com

or equivalent; (not to be interpreted as a sale of the product).\\

 

[blacksea]

Due to high cost of load simulation system, including regulated brake and torquemeter (see Magtrol, Huco, Himmelstein) for such high power 150HP, so line regenerative method, suggested by Stan from Baldor, maybe more effective way (vs. shunt regeneration) really.

Stan: please suggest at type of such drivers.

 

[jbartos]

Correction (I beg your pardon)
///Check electromagnetic brake/coupling, e.g. at...

 

[aolalde]

DC motor working as generator will give you flexibility to handle a wide range of speed.
Consider a way to measure the mechanical torque delivered at the test motor shaft. Torque metering coupling (strain gage) or a double bearing arrange to allow the reaction torque of the DC machine frame measurement. (LB*Ft or Kg*m)
The DC output could be converted in heat (resistive bank) or pumped back to the line with a DC-AC converter.
If you will do frequent tests, calculate the cost of electrical energy consumed on each test, as compared to the investment of the converter...

 

[jbartos]

Suggestion to the original posting: Collect all pertinent information for various solutions and have them independently evaluated to avoid any preconceptions.