Providing test systems for aerospace projects

SAKOR previously supplied two advanced dynamometer test systems to Lockheed Martin in 2012 for use testing the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite – R-Series (GOES-R). The two new dynamometers feature updates and enhancements over the previous generation, including increased efficiency and ability to test a much broader range of devices due to their ability to directly control motors and drives with or without the use of the MIL-STD-1553 avionics bus.

“Lockheed Martin has a longstanding commitment to working with smaller US-based companies and SAKOR is honoured to be selected to provide our top quality testing solutions for Lockheed Martin’s critical aerospace projects,” said Randal Beattie, President of SAKOR Technologies.

“Our first two testing systems provided Lockheed Martin with trouble-free operation throughout the entire GOES-R project. Now, we are pleased to remain a trusted partner of the company and to continue to innovate in order to most effectively test the next generation of aerospace technology.”

The systems are designed to be used with magneto-fluidic couplings, which allow for testing of products within a thermo-vacuum chamber while the dynamometer remains outside the chamber, a configuration well suited for testing components intended for deep space. The new dynamometers can be used as independent test systems, or can take advantage of networking to be used in groups of up to four dynamometers.

When grouped, the systems can be used to test multiple different components under the same conditions within the same thermo-vacuum chamber, thereby allowing for precise, controlled comparison testing. Additionally, the new dynamometers are capable of achieving a wide range of torque and speed, including ultra-low speed, high torque rotation at as low as 3.0x10-6 RPM, or one full rotation every 231.5 days.

The SAKOR AccuDyne dynamometers offer full four-quadrant operation with seamless transition between loading and motoring modes. The new dynamometers feature SAKOR’s DynoLAB control system, which offers complete automation of all types of test cycles used in performance, durability, and quality control testing. DynoLAB will be used to fully integrate the entire test system for the flight drives.