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Ricardo engine site opens to all corners

29th July 1999, Page 18
29th July 1999
Page 18
Page 18, 29th July 1999 — Ricardo engine site opens to all corners
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• by Colin Barnett Automotive research and development specialist Ricardo has opened the first phase of its 212m Advanced Engine Development Centre.

Based at the company's original premises at Shoreham, West Sussex, the new site closely follows the opening of Ricardo's Midlands Technical Centre at Leamington Spa. The company also has operations in the USA, Germany and the Far East.

At the heart of the Shoreham development is a block capable of housing 12 engine test cells. Four cells are currently operational; the remainder will be brought on line as required.

Each cell is self-contained, with access for staff arranged to ensure that engineers from rival manufacturers can work in adjacent cells in total secrecy The major attraction to engine manufacturers is the ability to simulate a range of operating conditions with no need to venture onto the road. The cells allow installation of engines as realistically as possible, complete with exhaust systems, heater units and the like.

Realism is further enhanced by ''highly transient.' dynamometers, developed by subsidiary Ricardo Test Automation,

which simulate the rapid changes in loading experienced in real life, and by

using advanced control software.

This is expected to contribute to reduced development costs and lead times, As well as providing facilities for engine manufacturers. Ricardo carries out a considerable amount of research on its own account.

Much of this is in the area of direct-injection petrol (GDI) and common-rail diesel engines, but the company is also looking further ahead with consultancy work on hydrogenfuel-cell technology.


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