PTO Dynamometers
PTO dynamometers are engineered and designed to meet the need for reliable PTO testing. PTO, or power take off, is a driveshaft used in industrial and agricultural sectors to provide power to a secondary or separate machine. The PTO is on an engine usually located in a truck or a tractor that is then able to power an attached machine. Other common types of dynos include brake dynamometers, chassis dynamometers, engine dynamometers, and eddy current dynamometers.
Quick links to PTO Dynamometers Information
Applications of PTO Dynamometers
A PTO is produced according to a standardized basis for dimensions and speed, and the ISO standard for power take offs is ISO 500. Therefore, testing of the PTO is important, especially in agricultural settings where the equipment is crucial to the daily undertakings of the operation. Accurate PTO testing provides information that can be used to lower machine maintenance costs and improve the reliability of the equipment. Dynometers are devices used to measure force or power of an engine, motor, or machine in terms of torque and revolutions per minute. They can be used to determine horsepower, maximum rotary speed, and maximum power absorption. An engine or machine is put under test, and the results of its performance are gathered by the dynamometer's data-acquisition electronic system. Dynamometers typically have feedback features for both speed and power for the purposes of performance testing and monitoring.
PTO Dynamometer Design
Most dynamometers, or dynos, are constructed of basic components, including a frame, engine mounts, an absorption unit, a heat exchanger, and a torque measuring device. Other common features that vary according to the specific application of the dynamometer include sensors, torque arms, flow control or throttling, alarms, and encoders. A computer system with a control console, or separate console, is responsible for acquiring data and analyzing motor power and capacity. This data is then able to be printed out, usually in graphs, and steps can be taken to improve the performance of the PTO according to areas of lost energy.
Factors to Consider When Using PTO Dynamometers
Power take off shafts have been responsible for a number of serious accidents, so caution should be used around them. They are designed to be easily connected and disconnected for ease of access to the source of power, but this allows open access to a powerful machine, which can be dangerous. Many are controlled by a push button or selector switch in an attempt to improve operator safety. A dynamometer is typically an expensive piece of equipment and is used in specified fields by qualified personnel.