Current - Issue

The evaluation of engine performance is an important aspect of mechanical and automobile engineering because it helps determine the efficiency and operating characteristics of an internal combustion engine. Among various performance parameters, braking power represents the actual useful power available at the engine output shaft after accounting for mechanical losses. The present study focuses on the experimental analysis of braking power at various engine speeds (RPM) using a tachometer and pressure gauge. A disc brake dynamometer was developed and utilized to measure engine performance under different loading conditions. The experimental setup consists of an internal combustion engine, disc brake dynamometer, brake caliper, brake pads, chain drive mechanism, pressure gauge, tachometer, and supporting frame. The braking force was applied through a hydraulic braking arrangement, creating resistance to shaft rotation and enabling torque measurement. The torque developed was calculated using the applied force and effective radius of the brake disc, while braking power was determined from the measured torque and engine speed. Experimental observations were carried out over a speed range of 100–400 RPM (Revolution Per Minute) under varying load conditions. The results indicate that torque increases with increasing load, whereas engine speed decreases due to the opposing braking force. Braking power initially increases with load because of the rise in torque, reaches a maximum value at moderate operating conditions, and then decreases due to excessive load and speed reduction. Graphical analysis demonstrates the relationships among load, speed, torque, and braking power, providing a comprehensive understanding of engine behavior under different operating conditions. The study confirms that the disc brake dynamometer is a simple, reliable, and cost- effective method for engine performance evaluation. The developed system can be effectively used in educational laboratories, research studies, and basic engine testing applications.