It is difficult to arrest the primary context for dynamometer use in precise terms; their application ranges from the measurement of force exerted by a human hand as well as the measurement of combustion engine horsepower. Read More…
Leading Manufacturers
SAKOR Technologies, Inc.
Owosso, MI | 989-720-2700We provide dynamometer test controls and equipment for a wide range of applications. Our test cell control system is compatible with all types of dynamometers, including AC & DC motoring dynos & Water Brake Systems. Our products all include the durability & quality customers expect from SAKOR. Our dynamometers are powerful & affordable for the automotive, aerospace & heavy equipment industries.

Phoenix Dynamometer Technologies LLC
Sturtevant, WI | 818-746-3649Phoenix Dynamometer Technologies LLC offers the most comprehensive approach to water re-circulation systems, data acquisition systems, and dynamometers in the industry. Along with these high performance products, we also offer business continuity and a competitive advantage for our customers. Come and experience the kind of service that sets us above our competitors. We would love to serve you...

Power Test, Inc.
Sussex, WI | 262-252-4301Since our inception we have been committed to manufacturing top of the line dynamometers that will stand up to the rigorous wear and tear of every day application. Our products serve in many diverse industries including automotive, automation, industrial as well as a broad variety of others! To learn more about what we may be able to do for you visit our website today for more information!

Burke E. Porter Machinery Company
Grand Rapids, MI | 616-234-1200Since 1953, our customers have helped us earn the reputation of a technology pioneer and global leader in Vehicle Test Systems. As the manufacturer of the first fully electric DVT roll-brake machine, we paved the way for innovation in automotive and heavy duty vehicle testing, supplying end-of-line equipment, dynamometers, and tire & wheel assembly systems to major OEMs throughout the world.

Brake Dynamometers List
Brake dynamometers are most widely used in the measurement of the forces generated by motors. In that context, brake dynamometers can be considered varieties of engine dynamometers or motor testers. They take their name from the method by which they produce measurements of force generation in an engine. A brake is a utility that inhibits motion in a machine. When a brake is applied to a motor, it resists the movement that results from the force generated by that motor.
The amount of force necessary to inhibit motion can be measured, and the expression of that measurement and its appearance on a display is the fulfillment of a brake dynamometer's purpose. One of the first ever brake dynamometers was the de Prony brake, invented by Gaspard de Prony in 1821.
The de Prony brake is a mechanical friction brake. Wrapping a belt or cord around the output shaft of the engine and measuring the force transferred to the belt produces the measurement. Measurement takes place by attaching a pair of spring balances to the brake.
While the shaft is rotating, one balance will show an increase in tension and the other will show a decrease in tension. Water brake dynamometers, also called hydraulic dynamometers, are very popular for engine testing because they have a high power capability while remaining inexpensive to operate. The most common type of water brake is called a variable level water brake. In this type of brake dynamometer, water is added until the engine is held at a steady RPM. The water is then kept at that level and replaced by constant draining and refilling that carries away the heat created by absorbing the horsepower. In response to the torque, the housing attempts to rotate, but it is restrained by the torque metering cell.