AVL DiTEST launches DPM 800
AVL DiTEST, a member of the renowned AVL List group of automotive companies, is launching a revolutionary new in-cylinder pressure transducer at the Autosport Engineering Show, NEC, Birmingham, January 14/15. Called the DPM 800 (DPM stands for Dynamic Pressure Measurement), the new product comprises a unique spark plug with built-in pressure sensor. The so called Piezo plug system will not only help motorsport teams tune their engines where and whenever they wish, but also accurately gauge wear rates and potential longevity as the season progresses.
Cylinder pressure transducers have traditionally required modifications to the cylinder head of the engine on test, so have been restricted to dyno use only. Where the AVL DiTEST technology differs, is that its sensor is built into a replacement spark plug, allowing engines to be tested at the circuit, in the workshop etc – ie wherever and whenever pressure readings are needed. There is an equally effective version for compression ignition engines, in which the pressure transducer replaces the engine’s glow plug.
The smallest sensor technology in the world
The other unique aspect of the technology comes courtesy of AVL DiTEST’s sister company PIEZOCRYST and concerns the sensor’s crystal that is key to the measurement process. Rather than the normal quartz type that is considerably bulkier and requires water cooling, the AVL DiTEST system utilises a Gallium Phosphate crystal. Artificially grown by PIEZOCRYST, this not only results in the smallest such sensor technology in the world, but one that can operate stably at very high temperatures without any extra cooling.
The new DPM 800 motorsport package comprises the Piezo plug, an amplifier, an oscilloscope (AVL DiTEST DiSCOPE 802) and the related software. To test the performance in a particular cylinder one merely replaces the existing spark plug and links the Piezo plug to the rest of the AVL DiTEST equipment. Accurate pressure readings can then be taken whatever the engine temperature. Top Dead Centre (TDC) can be readily ascertained and pressure curves produced to allow optimisation of ignition timing and general performance.
Major savings could result
Some racing formulae require engines to last a whole season without rebuild. In such situations, the AVL DiTEST system can provide an invaluable guide to general wear and tear and help predict failures before they occur – the cost savings of which could clearly be considerable.
Its highly competitive price of 6,550 Euros (including plug, amplifier, oscilloscope and software), will bring such equipment within reach of the semi-professional motorsport fraternity for the first time. Moreover, the system is equally suitable for use by tuning companies, university test labs etc.
For further information on AVL DiTEST and its products log onto avlditest.com.
