Powertrain and Driveline NVH
Traditionally, OEMs would undertake Powertrain NVH development testing at multiple facilities, one for each of the major systems. For example, base engine and air intake work is likely to be done on an Engine Noise Test Cell, whereas exhaust and transmission-driveline development activities would be carried out at separate, specialist facilities. This approach is both costly and time consuming, as more than one prototype engine is required, or engines shared between the different facilities. Today, more than ever, OEM’s are having to undertake development activities in less time with tighter budgets. 

In response to this challenge, in 2015, AVA Consulting developed a new approach to powertrain testing which reduces both time and costs for the OEM. We call it the Full Powertrain Test Platform (FPTP), and can be used for base engine, transmission, driveline, exhaust, air intake, fuel, cooling and ancillaries NVH development testing. To date, AVA Consulting have 3 FPTPs in operation, in I4, I6, and V8 configurations.

Powertrain NVH Attributes and Systems

An FPTP can be used to measure the NVH attributes of the  following powertrain systems:-
  • Base Engine and Ancillaries 
  • Air Intake System
  • Exhaust System
  • Transmission and Driveline
  • Fuel and Cooling systems
  • Powertrain Mounted Sensor Vibration

Technical Advantages

  • Early Program Testing to Correlate CAE Models
  • Representative System Interactions
  • Greater Access for Torsional Laser and Acoustic Camera Tools
  • Powertrain Component Sound Power Measurement
  • Correct Exhaust System NVH 
  • Option for Direct Mount Forcing Studies

OEM Program Benefits

  • A shared resource reducing costs and time 
  • Greater collaboration amongst the wider PT team, helpful for problem resolution
  • Can be configured as an IC engine or EV Hybrid powertrain

Greater Flexibilty

Compared with a traditional, multiple test facility approach, using AVA’s FPTP offers the following benefits:-
  • Time required to change from one FPTP to another is hours rather than weeks or months
  • When using hub dynamometers, it is simple to test FWD, RWD or 4WD platforms
  • A FPTP can simply accommodate different wheel base lengths for the same vehicle program
  • Major build changes can be carried out off-line to reduce chamber hire costs, or to continue testing with another powertrain

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